How to Prevent your Pet from Becoming Lost

To ensure that your pet doesn’t become lost—or to make sure he comes home if he strays—please follow these tips:

• Make sure your pet is spayed or neutered. He or she will be less likely to roam and will stay healthier, too. If you can’t afford spay/neuter surgery, our Spay Neuter Incentive Program (SNIP) may be able to help.


• Keep a collar and ID tag on your pet. The ID tag should contain your name, address, and phone number(s). Even indoor cats need ID—and for them, a breakaway collar is safest. You can have your pet’s name and your phone number stitched into certain collars in case tags become detached.


• Keep your home and yard secure by fixing gaps in fences and securing window screens.


• Teach your dog to come when he’s called. If you have trouble controlling him when you take him out for a walk, try a training class or work with him regularly at home.


• Keep your cat indoors. He can be perfectly happy there, as long as you give him toys, playtime, and attention.


• Microchip your pet for extra security. The simple procedure can be done at most vet offices. (Lollypop Farm currently microchips all dogs and cats before they are adopted.) Make sure to update the registration information each time your contact information changes, and keep a collar and tag on your pet as a back-up option.


• Make sure that the veterinarian who gave your pet his vaccinations has your current contact information.


• Gather records that will link you to your pet if he ever strays. Keep clear and current photos on hand in addition to extra proof of ownership, including veterinary records and license certificate.