What to Do if You Have Just Lost a Pet

Losing a pet is emotionally devastating, and some can even compare the experience to losing a child.  Pets don’t seem to understand that their well-being is at stake when they dart between our legs and out the door, pull the leash out of our hands, or dig out from under fences.  Pet loss prevention programs have been initiated to help us find our pets such as microchip ID, but this only works if someone picks up your pet who has a scanner such as animal shelters and vets.  This happens very often, so microchips are a wonderful and affordable option.

Here are some tips to help you find your lost pet:
Don’t hesitate to search; start immediately. 
Don’t wait for a pet to wander back home, and don’t assume that if this has worked in the past that it will work this time.  The sooner you move, the closer they are likely to be, and the sooner you will have them back and safe in your arms.Animals can hide really well, so search your property eagerly.  Start in their usual hang out spots, and then spread out. Check your neighbour’s properties, and nearby alleys, parks, and schools.Call call call their names.  Shake a box of treats or squeak a toy! They may come running from out of no where.

Create flyers with a photo and detailed description.  Distribute them everywhere. 
Put them up at places you consider too far for them to have wandered.  Tape them up at vet offices, pet supply stores, farm feed stores, and telephone poles.Check the found classifieds everyday, and call your shelter everyday. Visit them every other day. 
Inform your local pound or shelter of the situation immediately, and leave them your pet’s description and your contact info. 
Ask your local pet store if you can put a notice in their window.

Even if your dog left with a collar and tags on, it doesn’t mean that they won’t have slipped out of them.
Consider schools and radio stations that announce lost pet reports.
Post the situation in the pet section of Craigs List Australia and Gumtree both visited by millions everyday.  This has worked!

Put some of your personal objects outside your home that smell like you. Really smelly. Sweaty gym clothes are good. 
Pets are attracted to their owner’s scent.
Ask postal workers, bus drivers, and anyone who is regularly in and around your neighbourhood.

If this has happened to you, we are very sorry for your lost, but don’t give up.  Keep trying everyday and never lose hope!