Top 5 Tips for Lost Pet Prevention in the CT Shoreline

July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and empower pet parents to keep their pets safe and sound. At Shoreline Happy Paws, we recognize that the Connecticut Shoreline offers a beautiful, pet-friendly environment; however, it also presents unique risks for adventurous dogs and curious cats. Here are my top 5 tips for lost pet prevention in the CT Shoreline. Let’s work together to prevent heartache before it happens!

1. Microchipping & ID Tags

Microchipping is a simple, effective way to dramatically increase the chances of being reunited with your pet if they ever get lost. A microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, is implanted under your pet’s skin and contains a unique ID number linked to your contact details. The most important part of microchipping is ensuring your information is always up to date in the microchip registry. If not, you won’t be notified if the pet is found.

Even if your pet is microchipped, a sturdy collar with a legible ID tag is essential. Include your name and phone number in as large a print as will fit on the tag. For extra peace of mind, add a tag noting your pet is microchipped. Regularly check collars and tags for wear and tear, and replace them as needed.

2. Safeguarding Your Home & Yard

The CT Shoreline’s changing seasons can impact doors, windows, fences and gates. Inspect your yard for gaps, loose boards, or areas your pet could slip through or jump over. Repair any weaknesses promptly. When indoors, secure windows and doors, especially during spring and summer when they’re more likely to be left open. And, spay and neuter so your pet is less inclined to escape!

Don’t leave pets alone in yards, cars, or public spaces. Even the most well-behaved animal can be startled by loud noises, wildlife, or unfamiliar people, leading to a sudden escape. The holiday celebrations and summer storms are especially risky times, as strangers, fireworks, and thunder can frighten pets into running away.

3. Practicing Recall

Training your pet to reliably “come” when called is invaluable. Teach and practice recall in safe, enclosed spaces and reward your pet for responding. Consistent training can help prevent escapes and increase your chances of a quick reunion if your pet does get loose.

Whether you’re walking along the beach, hiking, or simply exploring your neighborhood, always keep your pet on a leash. Use a well-fitted harness and a standard 6-foot leash for maximum control. Retractable leashes can give pets too much freedom and increase the risk of escapes and injuries.

4. Preparing for Emergencies

Having an emergency plan that includes your pets ensures they stay safe alongside you in the case of severe weather or emergencies including floods, storms, fires, and freezes. Always have a pet first aid kit, food and water, and extra leashes and harnesses on hand in case you have to unexpectedly evacuate.

5. Adding Technology

Technology offers additional layers of protection for extra peace of mind. GPS collars or tags allow you to track your pet’s location in real time using your smartphone. This is especially helpful for pets who are prone to wandering or for families who enjoy outdoor adventures. Apps like these allow you to track your pet’s vaccination records, medical history, and other important details in case you can’t access paper records.

Keep recent photos of your pet handy for lost pet flyers or social media posts. If your pet is lost, knowing where to turn is key. CT Humane shares these tips. And, if you find a pet, knowing how to assist them is very helpful. Check out this blog about what to do if you find a lost pet in our area.

At Shoreline Happy Paws, we’re committed to helping CT Shoreline families keep their pets safe year-round. By taking these proactive steps, you can enjoy peace of mind and help ensure your beloved companions stay by your side. Our team is passionate about pet safety and loss prevention because we believe the above safety measures work!