Your dog is an integral part of your family, so keeping them safe is a top priority. Unfortunately, millions of pets go missing in the United States every single year. Taking steps to protect your pet and make sure they have updated identification can increase the chances of reunification if your dog should become lost.
Here are a few ways that you can be proactive:
Get your dog microchipped. Microchips are a wonderful way to enhance your pet’s safety by making it easier for professionals to identify them. A microchip is a tiny device about the size of a grain of rice that is inserted just below the skin on the back of your dog’s neck. They don’t even realize it’s there. But this microchip contains an identification number that is unique to your dog.
If they should become lost and are found, their microchip can be scanned, and their identification number looked up in a database. It is essential that once you have them microchipped, you go online to register them and fill out your contact information. Keep this information up to date should you move or get a new phone number.
Don’t forget their ID tags. Even if your dog is microchipped, they should still wear a collar with identification tags, especially when outside the home. It can be a good idea to get your dog used to wearing their collar all the time, just in case they should slip out of the house or the backyard.
Always use a leash. Even the most well-trained dog can become distracted or have an off day. It only takes a second for them to bolt. Using a leash can give you greater control and help you keep them close by.
Buckle up in the car. If you take your dog in the car with you, make sure you’re using an approved dog seatbelt or other restraint. This can help to keep your dog from darting out of an open door, window, or back hatch. You should also never leave your dog unattended in the car.
Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to what is happening around you. Are there people constantly going in and out the door? Are there going to be storms or fireworks that might scare your dog? Can your dog see other animals out the window that it wants to get to? These types of situations can all lead to your dog slipping out through a door that isn’t fully closed and becoming lost. Know where your dog is and ensure that they are in their crate or an interior room if there is a chance that they could become spooked or try to get outside, or if you can’t be there to supervise them.
Board them while you’re away. If you are going to be busy or out of town, be proactive and board your dog so you know that they are safe. You can have peace of mind that they are in a secure location where they will get the attention they need while being able to play and rest. You don’t have to worry about someone coming in and out of your house to periodically check on them. Lake Wylie Pet Resort offers luxury boarding for dogs of all sizes as well as a cattery designed especially for our feline friends. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s next stay!