Lost Pet Prevention Month is an annual event held in July to promote awareness of the importance of safeguarding our pets and preventing them from becoming lost, as well as providing guidance on what to do if they do go missing. At Swan Harbor Animal Hospital, we strive to equip you with the necessary resources for their safety. Losing a pet can be distressing for both the animal and its owner, but by taking some straightforward measures, we can reduce the chances of our beloved companions straying and spare ourselves unnecessary anxiety and concern.
As we approach the end of July, Swan Harbor wants to provide you with a helpful checklist that you can use year-round to ensure the safety of your beloved companion.
Here are some key tips to safeguard the well-being of your furry friend at home:
Ensure your dog (or cat) is microchipped Microchipping is cost-effective. We recommend HomeAgain microchipping.
HomeAgain's microchip products have patented anti-migration features to help ensure that the microchip will stay in place so that it may be easily located and scanned. If your pet gets lost and is taken to an animal shelter or veterinarian, they will scan the microchip to read its unique dog or cat ID code. This is the number used by HomeAgain to identify the pet and retrieve your contact information, which is used to contact you and reunite you with your pet.
Outfit your pet with a collar and ID tags Having identification on your pet can help reunite lost pets with their owners, thus avoiding heartbreak.
Teach your pet commands like "come" and "stay" Training your pet early can help them become attentive listeners, reducing the likelihood of them running off and getting lost.
Always keep your dog on a leash Using a leash is a simple way to keep track of your pet's whereabouts and ensure their safety as well as that of other dogs in the vicinity.
Secure your yard at home Having a secure yard is crucial in preventing your pet from getting lost. Check your fencing for height, security, and latch tightness, or consider installing an electric fence.
Spay or neuter your pet These procedures can help calm your pet, reduce wandering behavior, and contribute to controlling overpopulation and shelter intake.
Keep a close eye on your pet Always supervise your pet when out and about to minimize the risk of them getting lost.
Ensure pet safety in the car Monitor your pet's behavior in the car, be cautious with open windows and doors, and never leave your pet unattended in the vehicle.
Keep your pet's documents easily accessible Having essential documents readily available can expedite finding your lost pet. Documents may include ownership proof, vaccination records, and recent photos.
Practice indoor safety when you're away While outdoor time is important, keep your pet indoors when you're not home to ensure their safety and prevent them from escaping.
Should you or anyone you know be interested in getting a HomeAgain Microchip inserted, please contact Swan Harbor at 443-869-4104. Furthermore, inform us about this Blog Post to enjoy a $10.00 discount on the Chip's price.
Offer expires 8-31-24
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