July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month

At Pawsitive Dawg Walking and Pet Sitting, we know that pets are family and nothing is more heartbreaking than a beloved pet going missing. July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month, and it’s the perfect time to check your safety systems and make sure your pet has proper identification in place. A few simple steps can go a long way in keeping your furry friend safe and secure.

The Importance of Microchips and TagsMicrochips and ID tags are your pet’s best chance of making it home safely if they get lost. An ID tag with your current phone number allows a good Samaritan or neighbor to reach you quickly. A registered microchip serves as a permanent form of identification and can’t be removed or lost like a collar. Just be sure to keep your contact information updated with the chip registry and your local vet.

If your pet isn’t chipped yet, we highly recommend scheduling a quick appointment with your vet. It’s a simple procedure that provides a lifetime of protection. And if your pet is already chipped, now’s the perfect time to double-check that your info is current.

Securing Your Yard and Home Exits

Pets are curious, clever, and sometimes a little too brave for their own good. To help prevent unintentional escapes:

• Regularly check gates and fences for weak spots, loose boards, or gaps.

• Secure screen doors and windows, especially during the warmer months when they’re open more often.

• Train dogs to wait at doors rather than dash through when they open.

• Consider baby gates or pet barriers if you have little ones coming and going frequently.

For cats, it’s especially important to check window screens and to avoid letting them explore unsecured balconies or porches without supervision.

What to Do if Your Pet Goes Missing

Even with all the right precautions, accidents can still happen. If your pet ever goes missing, take action quickly:

1. Search nearby as most pets are found within a few blocks of home.

2. Post on local community boards and social media like Nextdoor, Facebook neighborhood groups, and Missing Dogs Massachusetts or Wandering Paws K9

3. Notify local animal shelters and veterinary clinics in case someone brings your pet in.

4. Put up flyers with a recent photo and clear contact information.

The faster you act, the better the chances of a happy reunion.

Prevention Brings Peace of Mind

Being proactive is the best way to prevent heartbreak. Microchipping, visible ID tags, and a secure home environment can make all the difference.

Let’s use July as a reminder to update, reinforce, and double-check our safety measures so that your pet stays exactly where they belong and remain safe at home, right by your side.