Take Steps to Prevent Your Pet from Becoming Lost

Animal Chronicles
July 6, 2025
By Dan Barner
Take Steps to Prevent Your Pet from Becoming Lost

As pet parents, one of our greatest fears is losing our pets. Each year, more than 10 million pets become lost. July is Lost Pet Prevention Month, the perfect time to consider how you can take actionable steps to prevent your pet from becoming lost. These steps are easy and something we can all do for our furry family members.

Pet-proof your home by securing all entry and exit points. This means that doors, windows and gates should all be closed and latched. Proper fencing should be installed in your yard at a sufficient height, and it should be inspected regularly for holes and gaps. Cats can even escape through small openings such as an exposed vent or fireplace.

When outside the home, pets should be supervised at all times. If you bring your pet beyond your fenced yard, always keep them on a leash. Take into consideration where you are bringing your pet. If you are attending an event that is loud and noisy, it might be best to leave your pet at home where they are safe and calm.

Recall training teaches your dog to run to you when they hear the cue “come” through positive reinforcement and engaging in a fun way. This helps promote safety and improves communication between you and your pet. The Animal Protective Foundation offers recall classes through its Canine Academy program. For upcoming class dates, visit animalprotective.org/canineacademy.

Spaying and neutering your pets can help calm their desire to mate, decreasing the chances of them escaping in search of a mate. Spaying and neutering can also help decrease the likelihood of behavioral issues that make them less likely to listen to commands.

Microchipping your pet and attaching ID tags to its collar are easy and effective ways to reunite you with your pet if they do become lost. Make sure your pet’s microchip and ID tags are up to date with your current contact information. If your pet is not yet microchipped, consider attending an upcoming microchip clinic at the Animal Protective Foundation in Glenville. The next clinic is set for Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration is available online at animalprotective.org/news-events.

By taking these proactive steps you can help prevent your pet from becoming lost. After all, a safe pet is a happy pet. Let’s work together to keep our furry family members safe and secure.

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