As responsible owners, there are a number of steps we can take to prevent pets getting lost or increasing the chances of being reunited with them. Here are some hints and tips:
Permanent identification
- Get your dog microchipped and licensed with the AFCD
- Cats can also be microchipped, something we do for all cats we rehome. SPCA clients and members can also report their cat’s microchip numbers to us and these will be stored in our database. Registered cats can then be quickly reunited with owners should we find them
- Most importantly, it is crucial for owners to keep their personal details updated, and to update those details when ownership changes, for example if you buy a dog or cat from a pet shop or your pet was given to you by a friend.
Non-permanent identification
- Do get you pet a collar with an identification tag that clearly shows a contact number
- GPS tracking devices may also help locate your pet if it’s nearby.
Other measures
- Current photographs are vital as they can be used for publicity and confirm identity. Keep all records of your pet in a safe place
- Make sure your pet is safely confined or under control whether in the house or outside the home
- Make sure you understand your pet. Is it scared of thunder or lighting? Does it not like new people in the house? Will it sneak out when visitors enter and leave? Ensure that you have a safe, secure place you can confine your pet before such things happen.
Lost and Found
Preventing Loss
As responsible owners, there are a number of steps we can take to prevent pets getting lost or increasing the chances of being reunited with then. Here are some hints and tips ...
How SPCA assesses lost claims
When we find a lost pet, our goal is to reunite owner and animal as quickly as possible. This is done most easily if the pet has permanent identification such as a microchip. If it doesn’t then we use assessment criteria to make sure pets are ...