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Humane Society of Greater Rochester

Lost Pet Prevention


Prevent Your Pet from Becoming Lost

A pet can go missing in the blink of eye. Learn what steps you can take to help prevent your pet from going missing and to help ensure they make it home if they ever do.

LOST PET

PREVENTION

Spay/Neuter your pet

Spay or neuter your pet so that he or she will be less likely to roam. If you can’t afford the surgery, local spay/neuter assistance programs such as our Spay Neuter Incentive Program (SNIP) may be able to help.

Keep a collar and ID tag on your pet at all times.

Always walk your dog with a collar or harness that won’t slip off. ID tags should contain your name, address, and phone number(s). Even indoor cats need a collar and ID. You can have your pet’s name and your phone number stitched onto a collar in case tags are lost.

Microchip your pet.

This quick, simple procedure can be done at most vet offices. (All pets adopted from Lollypop Farm are microchipped through 24PetWatch.) Microchips aren’t just for cats and dogs, but also horses, ferrets, and most other mammals. When you move, update the microchip registration with your new information.

Maintain fences, doors and windows

Secure your home and yard by fixing gaps in fences, securing window screens, and making sure storm doors latch properly. Take extra precautions on July 4, the one day of the year when the most pets become lost.

Teach Your dog to come

Teach your dog to come when he’s called. Take a training class or work with him regularly to help him walk well on a leash.

Keep cats indoors as much as possible.

Keep your cat indoors, where he can be perfectly happy with toys, playtime, and attention.

Take precautions while transporting pets

Transport your pets safely, and in a secure carrier when possible.

Keep records and good photos on hand

Gather records that prove your pet is yours. Keep good photos of your pet on hand, as well as veterinary records and his license certificate. Make sure that the

Help is just a text away!

Help this pet home with step-by-step instructions from Lost2Found. This Lollypop Farm texting service is designed to help walk you through the steps of reuniting a pet with their family. Whether you found a stray or your own beloved pet has gone missing just text “LPFLost” to (844) LPF-LOST for easy step-by-step instructions.

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