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Hardly a day goes by without an appeal on social media about a stolen, escaped or lost dog. But many owners still do not take appropriate action to minimize risk and keep their pets safe. As a responsible owner it is your job to protect your dog. Make sure you follow these 7 essential tips to keep your pooch safe and sound.
1. Microchipping
It is never too soon to get your dog micro chipped. Provide your contact details, and the phone number of a close relative or friend who lives nearby, especially if you plan to use a dog walking service. If your dog gets lost while in someone else’s care, a neighbor might be able to help search quicker than you. Always update your contact details with address or phone details as soon as they change — outdated microchip information is no use to anyone.
2. Use strong collars and leads
Even the smallest dogs can give the strongest of tugs if they see something interesting on the opposite side of the road. Don’t skimp on quality when purchasing new collars and leads, to reduce the risk of them breaking at dangerous moments. Choose a leather collar with a strong buckle fastening, complemented by a strong leather or rope lead. Add a solid dog tag with your phone number so that anyone finding your dog can contact you quickly and easily. Combined with the microchip, a tag should ensure you and your dog are reunited. For maximum protection, keep the collar on your dog at all times. An open door leading to an open gate leads to an exciting adventure, but can also lead to a lost dog!
3. Close doors, bolt gates
Get your family into the habit of closing internal doors before opening external doors. Your dog should also be safely tucked away before you answer the door to visitors. Some dogs are natural escape artists, and the scent of a female dog on heat will tempt the nose of even the best-trained canine.
4. Fenced Yard-
Your garden may be well fenced and visible from your windows, but gates can be tucked away around corners, making it hard to be certain they are shut. Whenever you let your dog out into the garden, take a moment to check the gate is secure. For added protection, fix a bolt half-way down the gate, instead of at the top. This stops delivery drivers and visitors from reaching over and unbolting your gate without you knowing.
5. Be vigilant when walking
Your dog may be friendly, but others might pose a threat. When out walking, look ahead, and if another unfamiliar dog is approaching, it’s a good idea to call out something like ‘Is your dog friendly?’ Most responsible dog owners will appreciate your concerns and be happy to respond. If you are unsure, just pull your dog to the side and let the other animal pass. Dogs are always nervous when on a lead as they cannot run away if challenged, so you must be vigilant on their behalf.
Be responsible when walking in open areas: don’t let your dog bound over to greet others’ pets unsupervised, and never let your dog leap out of your vehicle into their path. Surprises like these can threaten other dogs and lead to confrontations. Always maintain control of your dog.
6. Never leave your dog with strangers
If you’re going away without your dog, plan ahead. Arrange for someone to look after your dog while you are away. Traditionally, kennels were the only option, but now many people choose home boarding as an alternative. Leaving your pet with a family is a much better option than an impersonal kennel, but you must visit the home boarder beforehand and verify everything.
7. Ensure their garden is secure, and the house is clean and not overcrowded with other visiting dogs or children. Ask to see their insurance policy, and home dog boarding licence. If they are reputable and trustworthy, they will be happy to oblige. Walk away from anyone who cannot supply those details.
Do everything you can to minimize the risk of your dog being lost or stolen. Do everything you can to maximize the chance of it being found and returned to you. As a responsible owner, it is your job to ensure the safety of your canine friend.
