Even though pets prefer to stick close by their owners’ sides as much as possible, there are times when distractions, events or noises can cause a pet to roam. The following are five steps pet owners can take to stop your pet from getting lost.
1. Invest in Microchipping
Invest in microchipping. Microchipping is an effective way to ensure current contact information always accompanies the animal, whether he or she is wearing a collar or not. Microchips are small identification devices about the size of a grain of rice that are painlessly inserted just under the skin of a pet. The microchip gives off a signal that can be read with a handheld scanner used by animal shelters and most vets. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, examined information from 53 animal shelters across the U.S. and confirmed the high rate of return of microchipped dogs and cats to their families.
2. Get a Collar and Identification Tag
Collars may seem “old school” in a digital world, but a dog tag is an ideal way to identify a pet and provide contact information should he or she get lost.
3. Ensure Your Pet is Spayed or Neutered
Animals that have not been spayed or neutered have a tendency to roam because they are looking to fulfill the instinct to mate. Neutering removes this desire, and the pets may be more content to remain at home.
4. Leash Pets Outdoors
Even the most well-behaved and trained animals may dash off after a squirrel or other distractions from time to time, especially if the animal is scared. These issues can be prevented by using a leash outside at all times.
5. Escape-Proof Homes and Yards
Check to see if any potential escape routes are around the house and outside in the yard. Dogs that dig can be derailed by burying chicken wire around the edges of the fence. Make sure gates are self-latching as well. Indoors, check that windows are secure. Exercise caution when opening doors and check that pets have not squeezed through, advising visitors to do the same. If you have a Houdini on your hands, supervise outdoor play.
Do you have a pet who deserves to be recognized?
We bet you do.
Go to facebook.com/officialkidsmag and share a photo of your pet and tell us why they deserve to be the Official Kids Mag pet of the month. Your furry friend might just be next!!
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