How To Act When Your Dog Goes Missing

When your dogs get lost it can be very stressful BUT do not panic.  There are things to do that will increase your chances of finding your dog.  

You must follow these steps to find your lost dog in time.  

1.  Familiar Smells

The first thing to do if you have lost your pet is to leave items that the pet will recognise with the smell.  Leave these items where your dog was last seen.  For example, you should leave the dogs bed, some of your clothing and your dog's food and water bowls.  If your dog CAN get back, he will hopefully smell out what is familiar to him and stay there.  It is also a good idea to set up a camera next to these items that you can watch from your phone.  You never want to far away in case your dog comes back.  

2.  Check Places That he Could Be Stuck

Most dogs who are never found are stuck somewhere and unfortunately, don't make it.  It is very important to look for wild animal holes, fencing that the dog could be tangled in and any other place where they may be stuck.  This is the step that you need everyone possible to help you search as a dog can travel long distances very quickly.  Your dog could even be stuck in a hunter trap or humane cat trap so it is crucial that you follow the next step to find out where the traps are.  

3.  Inform EVERYONE

Communicating with the right people is extremely important.  Phone all of the local vets, tell the police and neighbours.  It is also a good idea to tell every farmer around your area to avoid your dog possibly being shot if he's on the farmer's land.  Ask around for local hunters that you can contact to see if they have any traps in the area when you lost your dog.  If they do, ask for the location so that you can check each one.  

You can also phone any animal services around you such as the rspca or any private ones.  Some radio stations have a lost pets section as well and the newspaper.  Make sure your pet's face is EVERYWHERE.  

Have someone close to you make a facebook page and be constantly on social media while you are out looking.  

*Disclaimer*  

I am not any type of animal expert but instead only an animal lover who wants to share her tips.  Please consult relevant animal specialists and do not only take my advice.

 The Rider's Pets