With the increase in outdoor activities and celebrations during the summer, the risk of pets getting lost rises significantly. In recognition of National Lost Pet Prevention Month, the Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department (Animal Services) is urging pet owners to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of their pets.
“Pets are cherished members of our families, and taking steps to prevent them from getting lost is crucial,” said Annette Jose, Director of Miami-Dade County Animal Services. “With our shelter already over capacity, we want to avoid owned pets entering the shelter system whenever possible. By being proactive, pet owners can protect their pets by microchipping and making sure they are always wearing a collar with an ID tag.”
Animal Services offers the following tips to prevent pets from getting lost:
Ensure Proper Identification: Always have your pet wear a well-fitted collar with up-to-date identification tags that include your current contact information.
Microchip Your Pet: Microchipping provides reliable permanent identification. Register your contact information with the microchip company and update it if you move or change phone numbers.
Secure Your Property: Regularly check fences and gates to ensure they are secure and that there are no escape routes. Always supervise pets when they are outdoors.
Keep Pets Indoors During Fireworks and Storms: Loud noises can frighten pets and cause them to run away. Create a safe, quiet space indoors where your pet can feel secure during parties, family gatherings, fireworks, thunderstorms, and other loud events.
Leash and Supervise: Always keep your pet on a leash during walks and never leave them unattended in public places.
In the unfortunate event that your pet goes missing, follow these steps:
Act Quickly: Search your neighborhood and alert your neighbors immediately. Pets often stay close to home.
Create Lost Pet Flyers: Include a clear photo and your contact information. Post the flyers in your neighborhood and share them on social media.
Notify Local Animal Services: Contact Miami-Dade County Animal Services and other local shelters to report your lost pet and fill out the lost pet report online. Provide them with a detailed description and a photo.
If you find a lost pet, take them to a local veterinary office to check for a microchip and contact the owner. If the pet doesn’t have a microchip, assume they are lost rather than abandoned and follow similar steps to locate their owner.
By following these preventive measures and knowing what to do if a pet goes missing, Miami-Dade County residents can help keep their pets safe and ensure they are quickly reunited if they become lost.
Each year, Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department takes in approximately 30,000 to 36,000 lost, abandoned, injured, ill, or abused dogs and cats. The Animal Services staff works diligently every day to find life-long homes for these animals by facilitating on-site adoptions, hosting off-site adoptions at events and locations throughout the community, and collaborating with rescue organizations, volunteers, and adoption partners.
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