Lost dog: how to get your pooch home safely
It has happened to many families, friends and myself — the dog goes missing.
They unexpectedly bolt out your front door and before you can nab them, they are running down the street.
There are numerous situations when your dog can become lost; therefore, I thought I would share some tips on how to get them home safely.
Ensure your dog is microchipped and your address is up to date on the chip. This is your first line of defence to help your lost dog.
Most adopted rescue dogs will have the contact information of the rescue organization on the chip.
You should also have your dog wear its collar at all times inside your home with tags that are also up to date.
If your dog is lost, you should contact local veterinarian clinics to alert them of your situation and email them a picture of your dog.
Post the picture on Facebook, Twitter and any other social media site. Hang pictures of your lost dog on poles in and around your neighbourhood. Let your neighbours know your dog is out loose. Search the internet for lost dog groups and contact them directly.
Once your dog has been found, inform all of those who were involved in searching for your beloved pooch.
My dog, Sam, ran out of my front door in Chester a few years ago and I was frozen in fear
Luckily, he ran down my neighbour’s long laneway and they bribed him into their home with treats.
Sam was only lost for about an hour, but I can tell you I cried the whole time thinking I would never see him again.
I should also tell you that individuals involved in animal rescue share one glaring habit: we keep extra leashes and collars of every size in our vehicles. We do this in case we find wandering lost dogs. I can attest to using my car leashes multiple times over the years.
I have picked up just about every breed and size of dog. Most times, the dog’s owner will appear when I have put a leash on the dog and the owner is always very thankful.
If the dog is wearing a collar with tags, I will personally deliver the dog to the family.
I hope some of these tips are helpful and that they alleviate a bit of the stress you may feel if your dog is lost.
There are many kind-hearted animals lovers who are more than willing to help you find your dog.
Even though my husband calls me a dog magnet because of all the lost dogs I have found, I also came across a lost horse on the South Shore.
Of course, I did not have a leash big enough so I had to call the RCMP. The horse made it home safely to the delight of a young girl.
Please be kind to animals.