A few of us have been there. That sinking feeling you get in your stomach and the instant sense of dread when you see the door open and the silence of no pet in sight.
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Having a pet become lost or go missing is a dreadful experience for any pet owner. In the haze of panic and worry – what do you do?
RSPCA ACT gets inundated with lost animal reports daily. Animals of all varieties are reported to our shelter, and we’ve had plenty of unusual ones among the mix. Yes, we have received lost diamond pythons, black sheep, domesticated rabbits and birds. And last year, we even had a stray dog and his miniature pig best friend come in together.
While reuniting stray animals with their owners is not our primary work, we do a lot of it! So, what should you do if you lose a pet?
WHERE SHOULD YOU START?
1. Do a thorough search of your property (you’d be surprised how many were just hiding in unconventional spots!) and surrounding neighbourhood. Check with your neighbours and people that you see walking in your area. Sometimes animals can accidentally be locked inside a neighbouring house, garage or garden shed.
2. Ring veterinary clinics, starting with your local area and work outwards.
3. Look online. We have a free lost and found service on our RSPCA ACT website: http://www.rspca-act.org.au/lost-found.
There’s also a fantastic local Facebook site called Lost Pet Database where people can post lost and found animals. The ACT Government’s Domestic Animals Services also receives the majority of stray dogs, so check out their website.
4. When lodging a lost report, provide as much information about your pet as possible. The more information you give us, the more likely we'll be able to reunite you with your beloved pet. For example, include information such as the area that your pet went missing, the breed and colour of your pet, its age, any distinguishing features, whether it was wearing a collar and ID and contact numbers and names should the animal be found.
5. Advertise your pet as lost in newspapers and online. Don't forget to check 'found' reports.
MICROCHIP YOUR PET!
Fast reunions are primarily made possible when a pet is microchipped. In fact, did you know that microchipping is mandatory in the ACT for dogs and cats by 12 weeks of age? While not compulsory, we also recommend microchipping all other mammals. Just make sure that you keep your microchip details up to date if you move.
While we never want to lose our best mate, it’s great to know that there’s help in the community to help you reunite quickly.
- Tammy Ven Dange is the CEO of RSPCA ACT.
