Finding lost pets: What to do if your pet goes missing

Key takeaways

• If your pet goes missing, check their favourite hiding spots first, then report them to your microchip company.
• Ask neighbours, post in local lost-and-found groups, and register on missing pet websites to widen the search.
• Keeping your pet’s microchip details up to date is the single most effective way to be reunited quickly.

Having your pet go missing is one of the most distressing experiences for pet owners and it can be difficult to think clearly. But there are lots of things you can do to increase your chances of being reunited. Try not to panic and follow these steps.

1. Check their favourite places

Before doing anything else, check that your pet isn’t relaxing in a quiet corner unaware of the worry they are causing. You could also put some of their favourite treats outside the door and watch out for them, call them by name or rattle their food biscuits to encourage them to return.

2. Report them missing

If your pet has a microchip, call your microchip company to report them missing and ensure your contact details are up to date. If your details are up to date, you will be contacted using the details held on the microchip record as soon as your pet is scanned.

If your pet doesn’t have a microchip, call your local vets and rescue centres to check if your pet has been handed in or to give them your contact details in case they are handed in later.

3. Ask your neighbours

Your neighbours may have spotted your pet if they disappeared near your home. You could do this over the phone or online, or ask them in person if they have seen them.

4. Use social media

Check local community groups and lost and found pets groups to see if anyone has found your pet. Ask members to look out for your pet and attach a picture of them so they are recognisable.

5. Register them on missing pets websites

There are many websites that provide listings of lost and found pets across the country. Do an online search for missing-pet websites in the UK and register your pet on them to alert more people.