Did you know that July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters? It’s not hard to understand why. With so many pets fleeing their house during the fireworks or escaping picnics the day before, it’s no wonder that July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month. If your pet should ever go missing, here are a few successful ways to bring your furry friend back.
#1: Supply your pet with multiple identification forms
When it comes to identification methods, the more, the better. Keep a collar on your pet that has an identification tag with your phone number and other pertinent information, and ensure the tag is legible, current, and securely attached. Another form of identification, and the only permanent one, is a microchip. This tiny chip is inserted just under your pet’s skin between their shoulder blades and emits a unique number when scanned. That number is then entered into a national microchip database to find the registration company. The company holds all of your personal information and will be the one to contact you, so update your phone number and address as needed.
#2: Use the power of social media to find your pet
Pet lovers make up a huge network on social media, and they are incredibly helpful in sharing missing pet posts. Use social media groups to share information about your missing pet on your local area and lost pets pages. Encourage friends and family to do the same, and word will spread and hopefully help reunite you and your pet much more quickly.
#3: Keep a current, color picture of your pet on hand
Although that Snapchat filter creates an adorable picture of your cat, it won’t be much help if your pet goes missing. Instead, regularly take clear, color pictures of your pet that include unique markings or physical features. By having a current picture on hand at all times, you can create missing pet posters and claim ownership when you find your pet.
At Southfork Animal Hospital, we hope that if your furry pal ever runs away, the journey will end in a happy reunion! If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us!