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How do I prevent my pet from getting Lost?

There are many ways that we can make sure that our pets don't get lost. Most of them are very easy.

Make sure they have a secure backyard / environment to play in
Holes in fences, open gates, objects that they can climb up on are all ways that our cats and dogs can get out. Cats in particular need a special enclosure as they can easily climb most backyard fences.

Illustration: Dad fixing fence

Close the Gates
Often we are in such a hurry that we don't close and lock our gates. Take an extra few seconds to make sure that it is closed properly.

Illustration: lock on a gate

Make sure your cat is confined at night
Most accidents happen at night. If your cat is inside or confined outside there is much less chance of it being involved in a fight or being run over by a car.

Illustration: cat indoors at night

Make sure your cats and dogs are microchipped and registered
The law says that we have to register all cats and dogs when they are three months old. They have to wear a special registration tag, which tells you what council they live in and who they belong to. The law says that they have to wear these tags when they leave your home. It's a good idea to leave them on at all times just in case they accidentally get out. All new dogs and cats now need to be microchipped prior to registration.

Illustration: Victor and Victoria showing their tags

Make sure you spend lots of time playing and exercising your pet
If your pet is bored or unhappy it is more likely to look for ways to entertain itself. This might mean trying to find a way to escape.

Illustration: Victor playing in the backyard with Sam

Make sure your pet is away from loud noises
Pets don't like noises like thunder and fireworks. If they are scared they might try and run away. You need to be aware of this on nights like New Years Eve or when there are loud parties.

Illustration: Victor and Victoria frightened by lightening

Choose a pet which suits your family environment and lifestyle
One of the biggest contributing factors in pets becoming lost and not reclaimed is that they are not suitable and families cannot cope with them. It is important that you consider all the points in the Choosing A Pet section.


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For general information about DPI please contact:
DPI Customer Service Centre
Phone: 136 186
Email: customer.service@dpi.vic.gov.au


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