One of a dog parent’s greatest anxieties is that their pet may be lost. Losing a pet is similar to losing a loved one, and it is a pain that no one should have to go through. July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month, which serves as a timely reminder to keep our pets safe and prevent them from becoming lost.
Even if you believe you are the safest pet parent in the world, it is always a good idea to have a checklist in place to avoid your pet from becoming lost.
Here are six essential tips to help you keep your precious pet safe in honor of National Lost Pet Prevention Month.
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#1 Collar and ID tags
While it may seem simple, some people overlook how important it is for your dog to have not only a secure collar, but also an ID tag.
Loose collars might fall off and become damaged and worn down over time. It is necessary that you inspect your dog’s collar to ensure that it is still in good condition.
You also don’t want to choke your dog, so strike a balance between secure and comfy.
ID tags make it very easy for someone to identify your dog and obtain your contact information right away. Custom tags can be purchased online or made at a local pet store for a reasonable charge.
As an added safeguard, write your phone number on the collar itself.
#2 Microchip Your Dog
Every pet parent should educate themselves on the benefits of pet microchipping.
Many people have been reunited with their lost dogs thanks to microchip technology.
If your dog loses their collar and becomes lost, a vet or shelter can scan for the microchip, which contains their name, your contact information, and the information for their primary vet or shelter.
The procedure for implanting a microchip is painless, and your dog will have no idea it is there. It’s roughly the size of a rice grain. The microchip will be injected beneath your dog’s skin by a veterinarian and will remain there for the rest of his or her life.
It’s also significant because if someone else claims your dog, you can legally prove ownership by inspecting the microchip.
#3 Dog Leash
If you own a dog, you must also own a dog leash. A leash is an essential aspect of owning a dog.
There are many sorts of leashes for different types of dogs and circumstances, so make sure you choose the proper fit for both you and your dog. Check that the leash you purchase is appropriate for your dog’s weight.
If you’re going for a stroll in the park where other dogs may be present, bring a shorter leash with more control so you can easily handle your dog if, for example, they try to chase another dog.
#4 Securing Yard and Home
When a dog escapes its yard, it is one of the most typical ways for them to become lost. There have been numerous instances where individuals have seen dogs wandering their neighborhood and mistook them for strays when they had simply strayed from their own land.
If you allow your dog out in the yard, double-check the fencing around your property. You want a fence that is the appropriate height for your dog’s size so that they cannot jump over it.
Even if they are unable to jump the fence, your dog may be able to dig their way out. An excellent technique to prevent this is to line the bottom of the fence with rocks or chicken wire.
Also, check for any loose panels that your dog can fit through to prevent him from squeezing through the fence.
#5 Train Your Dog
Training is vital for your dog’s safety in addition to teaching basic obedience and skills, especially when it comes to keeping them from running away or becoming lost. Instead of running outside anytime the front door is opened, train your dog to sit and wait. They should also be trained to come when called, to stay in a certain location when instructed, and not to chase after cars, lizards, squirrels, or other prey.
Many pet owners wrongly feel that training is only about teaching manners; nonetheless, training may one day save your dog’s life.
#6 Spay or Neuter Your Dog
Spaying and neutering are not only vital for preventing overpopulation and preventing more dogs from ending up in shelters, but it is also essential for preventing your pets from wandering off and becoming lost.
Male dogs that are not neutered have a stronger proclivity to seek out females due to natural sexual activity. This means that an unneutered dog is more likely to walk away from home and become lost while looking for female dogs, increasing the danger of being hit by a car.
Neutering your dog removes this tendency, making your dog calmer and more dependable and preventing future behavioral issues.
Female dogs will benefit from spaying as well, because fewer males will try to breed with them. Aggressive males can lead a female dog to bolt, so it’s best to keep them away.
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Further Reading
Just as dogs should never be faced with the anxiety and bewilderment of being lost, pet parents may avoid the anxiety and pressure that comes with losing a dog by utilizing common sense and the six essential tips listed above. We hope these tips help you and your dogs have a happy and safe July!
