How to Keep Your Pets Safe: Comprehensive Tips from Superpet

Introduction

Keeping our pets safe is a top priority for any pet owner. This July marks Lost Pet Prevention Month, and it’s an ideal time to review essential safety measures for your furry friends. Drawing from a variety of trusted sources, we at Superpet are sharing top tips to help you keep your pets safe and what to do if the worst happens and your pet goes missing or is stolen.

What to Do If You’ve Lost a Pet

Check Potential Hiding Places

If your pet seems to have gone missing from your home, start by thoroughly checking all potential hiding spots indoors. Pets can sometimes hide in unexpected places or get stuck, so ensure you look under furniture, inside closets, and any other nooks and crannies.

Search the Local Area

Take a walk around your neighbourhood, armed with treats and a recent photo of your pet. Ask passers-by if they have seen your pet and enlist their help in keeping an eye out. Showing images can be particularly effective in jogging people’s memories.

Ask Your Neighbours

Speak with your neighbours and ask if they’ve seen your pet. Request that they check their gardens, garages, sheds, and any outbuildings. Pets can sometimes wander into neighbouring properties and get trapped.

Contact Your Pet’s Microchip Database

If your pet is microchipped, immediately report them missing to your microchip company. Ensure your contact details, such as phone number, home address, and email address, are up to date. This step is crucial for a quick reunion if your pet is found.

Notify Your Local Dog Warden

For lost dogs, contact your local dog warden. They often patrol areas where stray dogs are reported and can help in the search.

Call Local Vets and Rescue Centres

Reach out to local vets and animal rescue centres. Provide them with your contact information so they can get in touch if your pet is brought in.

Use Missing Pet Websites and Social Media

Utilise missing pet websites and social media groups dedicated to posting missing pet details. These platforms can significantly widen the search area and reach a larger audience. Many online groups also offer tools to create printable posters for local distribution.

What to Do If Your Pet Is Stolen

If you suspect your pet has been stolen, follow the same steps as if they were lost but also notify the police. As of August 2024, the 'Pet Abduction Bill' will make cat and dog theft a criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland, providing more legal support in such cases.

Preventing Pet Loss and Theft

Pet Tag and Microchipping

• Pet Tag: Ensure your dog has a pet tag on their collar with your name, contact details, and home address. This not only helps in reuniting you with your pet but is also a legal requirement in the UK.
• Microchipping: As of June 2024, it is mandatory for all pet cats in England to be microchipped. Since 2016, all dogs in the UK must have a microchip. Register your contact details with the microchip database company and keep them up to date.

Neutering

Neutering your pet has numerous health benefits and reduces the likelihood of them wandering off in search of a mate, thus lowering the risk of them getting lost.

Visibility and Recall Training

When out with your dog, ensure they are visible at all times. Use a lead in unfamiliar areas and practice recall training using positive reinforcement. This ensures your dog reliably returns to you when called.

Secure Your Home and Garden

Make sure your home and garden are secure and pet-proof. Pets can be adept escape artists, so check for and repair any gaps or holes that could be potential escape routes.

Bad Weather and Fireworks

During bad weather or fireworks, keep your pets indoors. Loud noises can scare pets, causing them to run away. Ensuring they are inside can prevent them from bolting in fear.

GPS Tracking Devices

Consider using a GPS tracker on your pet’s collar. These devices allow you to track your pet’s location in real-time using a mobile app, which can be especially helpful if your pet likes to explore or if you live in an area where your pet could easily get lost (source: My Pet Needs That).

Summing Up

By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the risk of losing your pet and increase the chances of a safe and swift reunion if they do go missing. Stay vigilant and proactive in keeping your pets safe and secure.

For more information and resources on pet safety, visit Superpet. Share your pet safety tips and experiences with us on social media using #SuperpetSafety.