Lost Pet Prevention Tips

July is Lost Pet Prevention Month! No one likes to think of their animal companions getting lost. Unfortunately, it does happen, and more often than many people think. As many as one in three pets will get lost at some point in their lives. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to reduce the chances of this happening to your pet. A Lakeville, MN vet lists some key ones below.

Keep Kitty In

With cats, the best way to keep Fluffy from getting lost is just to ground her. Cats are also just safer indoors, where they are protected from hazards like traffic, weather, and wild animals.

Good Fencing

Do you have a yard for your dog to patrol? If so, that’s wonderful! Fido loves to run and play outdoors, and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. However, it’s important to make sure he can’t escape. Check your fencing regularly, and address any weak spots right away. If you think your canine buddy may try to dig out, bury chicken wire beneath the fence and weight it down with rocks.

Secure Gate

We strongly recommend getting a self-latching gate. It’s far too common for meter readers, pool cleaners, or even guests to leave these open. Many pups have escaped that way!

Spay/Neuter

Did you know that getting your furry buddy fixed can also reduce the risk of them getting lost? This makes sense: pets who are feeling amorous are much likely to run off looking for love. If your four-legged pal hasn’t been spayed or neutered yet, we strongly recommend getting this done immediately. (Bonus: this will also help curb bad behaviors and prevent unwanted litters.)

Training

Make sure that Fido knows basic doggy obedience commands, such as Sit, Stay, and Come. If your pooch ever gets loose, you want to be sure you can call him back to you!

Proper Gear

Whenever you take Fido off your property, make sure that he is wearing a leash. Dogs and cats should both always be crated for travel.

ID

Proper ID won’t stop your furry pal from getting lost, but they will make it much easier for you to get them back. Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing proper ID tags.

Please reach out to us, your Lakeville, MN vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!