I Think My Pet Is Missing, What Do I Do Next?

SafeWise experts have years of firsthand experience testing the products we recommend. Learn how we test and review. We may earn money when you buy through our links.

Your pet is a beloved member of the family. If they go missing, you need to find them as soon as possible. The first thing to do is remain calm. After that, follow our comprehensive guide to bring home your furry friend and keep them safe.

Light Bulb
Need pet insurance?

Check out Lemonade pet health insurance; it's one of the most affordable  options available, with customizable policies starting at $10/mo. 

1. Start looking now

Every minute you wait increases your potential search area. Start with a search of the neighborhood, paying special attention to your pet’s favorite spots. Take a recent picture of your pet with you so that you can let everyone know your pet has hit the road and enlist their help as you move through the area.

2. Stay near the phone

If your contact info is on your pet’s ID tag, make sure you or someone you trust is available at that number while your pet is missing. You don’t to miss a call from a concerned citizen letting you know they’ve found your pet.

3. Contact local shelters

Call your local shelters and animal control center to let them know your pet is missing and to give them a description and contact number. File a missing animal report with every agency within a 60-mile radius of your home. If your pet is gone overnight, visit the shelters daily if you can.

4. Put a face on it

It’s easier for people to help you find your four-legged family member if they know what your pet looks like. Post a recent photo on social media, send it to local shelters, and plaster the immediate area with posters. Ask local business owners to post your flyer and try to get your posters in the hands of local delivery drivers, your mail carrier, and other people who travel your neighborhood every day.

5. Don’t give up

Even if it’s been a few days, your pet can still be found. As long as you haven’t heard otherwise, keep up the search.

One in three pets go missing in their lifetime, so remember that there are plenty of other concerned pet lovers on your side.1 Check shelters regularly and make sure your neighbors and friends know you need their help.

Tips to prevent missing pets

Being reunited with your pet is wonderful. Use these tips to decrease the chances of losing them again.

  • Puppy proof: Creating a safe environment for your new puppy or dog can go a long way in preventing any mishaps.
  • Secure the perimeter: Make sure your yard is escape-proof. Keep fences and gates in good repair, and regularly walk around the yard to identify any evidence of digging. Add extra security with motion detectors and security monitors that can let you know via text or email if a gate has been opened or when your pet uses the doggie door.
  • Use a tracking device: Microchips, collars, and ID tags are invaluable for helping others identify your pet if they’re found. If your pet regularly escapes the yard, a pet tracker will help you identify where they are so you can bring them home safely as quickly as possible.

Remember, your pet is going to make it home sooner if you stay calm and know what to do. Keep this guide handy just in case your pet makes a run for it.


Compare the top pet safety products

Product
Best for
Price
Standout feature
Learn more
Read review
Affordable pet insuranceDeductible: $100–$500 (annual)
Affordable GPS pet trackerCollars for cats and dogs
Best pet cameraMotion and bark sensor

Treat dispenser

Best pet-friendly security systemAdjustable motion sensitivity
Best dog harnessReflective; 4-point adjustment
Best pet gateCat door

Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.


Sources

  1. Peeva, "Lost Pet Statistics." Accessed October 21, 2021.
Rebecca Edwards
Written by
Rebecca Edwards
Rebecca is the lead safety reporter and in-house expert for SafeWise.com. She has been a journalist and blogger for over 25 years, with a focus on home and community safety for the past decade. Rebecca spends dozens of hours every month poring over crime and safety reports and spotting trends. Her expertise is sought after by publications, broadcast journalists, non-profit organizations, podcasts, and more. You can find her expert advice and analysis in places like NPR, TechCrunch, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, The Miami Herald, HGTV, MSN, Reader's Digest, Real Simple, and an ever-growing library of podcast, radio and TV clips in the US and abroad.

Recent Articles

photo of Canadian house
The Best Home Security Systems in Canada
Find the best home alarm system to protect your house. We looked at price, features,...
medical alert products on an illustrated background
Best Medical Alert Systems
See which medical alert system is the best to keep you and your loved one...
woman adjusting thermostat in bright home
Best Home Security Systems
After thousands of hours of tests and research, we picked Vivint and SimpliSafe as the...
Man and woman couple wife husband set up surveillance security camera
Best Apartment Security Systems
These renter-friendly apartment security systems help keep you safe and require less commitment than your...