Introduction
Introduction
Losing a pet is a heart-wrenching experience that no pet parent wants to go through. However, it’s a reality that many face. According to the ASPCA, 15% of pets get lost during their lifetime. Fortunately, the majority of them are reunited with their owners. But what if you come across a potentially lost pet? It’s essential to know how to handle the situation responsibly and compassionately. In this article, we’ll discuss why pets get lost, how to approach a lost pet, and what steps to take to help reunite them with their owners.
Why Do Pets Get Lost?
Pets can go missing at any time, but there are certain periods when they are more prone to getting lost. Holidays and parties can be overwhelming for pets due to the influx of guests, loud noises, and disruptions in their routine. This can cause them to bolt out of open doors or windows. The Fourth of July, with its fireworks, is the most common day for pets to go missing. Some pets have a strong wanderlust instinct, leading them to escape from home. Additionally, intact pets are more likely to get lost due to hormonal impulses compared to those that have been spayed or neutered.
How to Approach a Lost Pet
When you encounter an unfamiliar pet, it’s crucial to exercise caution. If the pet seems scared or backs away, remain still and try to coax them towards you using a calm tone of voice. Having a slip leash can be helpful when approaching a dog, as it allows for quick and gentle correction. Offering treats can be beneficial, but many pets may refuse treats from strangers or during stressful situations.
Dogs and cats can be unpredictable when scared, so for your safety, avoid approaching animals that display aggression. Never approach a strange animal that is caring for their young, as they can become aggressive to protect their offspring.
If you need to keep a stray pet overnight, ensure they are separated from your other pets to minimize the risk of disease or parasite transmission. A spare dog crate, cat carrier, or seldom-used bathroom can serve as a temporary confinement area. Provide plenty of water and food, but don’t be surprised if a stressed pet refuses to eat.
Make Sure to Check for Identification
When you find a lost pet, the first thing to do is check for a collar and ID tag, which usually contains the pet’s name and their owner’s phone number. Most pets are friendly and will allow you to check their ID tag. However, if a pet is growling or showing signs of aggression, it’s safest to back off.
Some pets may leave home without their collar or have it torn off during their outdoor adventures. In such cases, remember that the pet may have other forms of permanent identification, such as a microchip.
When to Get Help
If the lost pet doesn’t have any visible identification, you have several options:
- If you have the time, try to find the pet owners by canvassing the neighborhood where you found the pet and asking neighbors if they recognize the dog or cat.
- If you know the pet belongs to a neighbor, keep the dog or cat safely contained and away from your own pets while you try to contact the pet owner.
- Call your local Animal Control department for assistance in capturing or reporting a lost dog or cat.
- Contact your local animal shelter and report that you have found a stray animal. They may take a “found report,” which will be made available to pet owners looking for their pets.
- Visit your local shelter, rescue organization, veterinarian, or law enforcement agency to have the dog or cat (even a rabbit) scanned for a microchip.
- Utilize social media platforms, including local neighborhood pages and groups, to post about the found pet.
If you can’t locate the pet owner and don’t have time to take the pet to be scanned for a microchip, it’s generally best to turn the pet over to your local animal shelter. They will do everything they can to find the lost pet’s family. However, there are times when the pet is truly a homeless stray and will need a forever home.
Local laws vary regarding how long you must keep an apparently stray pet before it’s legal to claim ownership of the pet yourself. Animal control or the police department can inform you about such laws in your city. Avoid making any permanent medical decisions, such as spaying, neutering, or microchipping, for a lost pet unless you have legally taken ownership.
Conclusion
While it’s not uncommon for pets to get lost, taking simple steps can help ensure a swift reunification. Always ensure that your pet has a collar and ID tag with up-to-date phone numbers. Microchipping is an affordable and simple procedure that provides lifelong identification, but pet owners must register the microchip and keep their contact information updated. By being prepared and knowing how to handle a lost pet, you can make a significant difference in helping reunite pets with their loving families.