Have you noticed?
There seems to be an influx of missing and lost pets this past couple of months. If you don’t believe me, just hit the Lost and Found link to the right of the blog.
Where are they going?
What is happening to them? Even some of our outdoor shelter cats have disappeared without a trace. The fact is, there are many predators out in the evening, more so in the breeding seasons. There are more cars on the road as vacationers are heading to their favorite spots. Plus the smells of flora and fauna and adventure seem to maximize around this time of year. It seems like a good time for an animal to follow their nose right out of the nearby area.
What Can You Do?
TARPS advises people in our area to bring their cats in at dusk. If you leave food out for your pet bring it in at afternoon time. Or better yet, don’t leave food outside*. When dusk comes, it’s much easier to coax your pet in with a bowl of their favorite chow.
Keep an eye on your indoor pets. Are your screens in properly? Do they snuggly fit your windows? Door screens can be easily slashed through with a swipe of a paw. Consider some heavier screening or chicken wire low down on the door. If your door opens easily with a little push, lock it while you are indoors. Have the family and visitors keep an eye out as they come in or out.
If you’ve taken your pet with you on vacation, keep an even closer eye on them. Walk them on a leash. Even cats do well on a leash, if they are trained early in life. If your cat is older, try it anyway. Some times you’d be surprised, some cats enjoy it.
Unfortunately You Can’t Predict What You Pet Will Do
If your pet does manage to wander off, there are a few things you can do.
We tried to list some of them here, hoping they might reunite you with your pet:
http://tarpsanimalsheltervt.org/report-a-missing-animal/
Here are some more tips from our favorite Animal Planet Star, Jackson Galaxy.
http://jacksongalaxy.com/2012/08/03/escape-artists/
*Leaving food out may also attract predator and foraging animals to your home. Be sure to have fresh water always available inside and out. Check the bowl frequently and refill when necessary, especially during hotter days.
