What to do if your Pet Goes Missing

We'd like to share a story that might hit close to home, especially for those with adventurous pets.

You may have seen Django on our social media last week, a curious cat who gave his family quite a scare. Django decided to go on a little adventure right after his family returned from holiday. Was it a form of feline payback for being left behind? Who knows! But for five long days, Django was missing, leaving his family worried sick 🥺.

When he finally returned, he was skinny, tired, and in need of some TLC. Thankfully, Django's story had a happy ending, but it got us thinking about how to prepare if your pet goes missing.

Django home safe and sound

Tips to PREVENT Your Pet from Going Missing 

🆔 Identification: Microchips are invaluable for permanent identification if a pet is found (it is the law to have dogs microchipped). Also an ID tag is a good idea or a GPS tag adds real-time tracking for extra peace of mind. 🏠 Secure Your Home and Garden: Check for escape routes in your home and garden. Make sure fences are secure and there are no gaps that pets could squeeze through.

🩶 Routines: If you let your cat out, make sure to regularly check on them and keep track of their routines, routes and favourite spots. 🐩🐈 Train Pets: Basic dog training can include commands to stay close or return on call. When training cats, give them a small treat to encourage them to come when called.

WHAT TO DO if Your Pet Goes Missing We hope you never have to face the anxiety of your pet going missing, but in case they do, here are some tips... 

🔎 Search: Search your home and surrounding areas (bring food for the smell, while calling their name) including hiding spots or places they could have been locked into, like wardrobes, sheds and cars.

📢 Social Media: Social media is great at helping to find lost pets. Ask people to share posts as well as sending us a photo, mentioning the last place they were seen so we can post to our Instagram and Facebook pages. 📞 Contact Local Shelters: Notify local animal shelters and pounds. Dogs in particular are often left to shelters like the DSPCA.

📃 Posters or Flyers: Make a poster or flyer with a photo of your pet and your contact information. Distribute them around your neighbourhood.

💪Stay Positive and Persistent: Keep your spirits up. Many pets return home after several days, just like Django. Again, please don't forget we will try to help by posting on social media, so send photos. Hopefully these tips help keep your pets safe and sound and being prepared can make all the difference if your pet ever decides to take an unexpected trip.

If you think your pet may have been taken, please contact an Garda Síochána.

Best regards, PVH team

P.S. Have a story of your own to share or need more advice? Feel free to contact us anytime!