a missing pet is a Halloween horror

Visitors at the door. Strange costumes. New lights, sounds, and smells. Let’s face it, Halloween can be super spooky for dogs and cats. We’ll show you how to take extra precautions to keep pets from going missing so everyone has a safe holiday.

Nothing’s scarier than a missing dog or cat

Halloween is a fun but sometimes frightening time of year — especially for pets! Opening the door for trick-or-treaters gives them ample opportunity to escape. Here’s what you can do to avoid a lost dog or cat.

Create a safe space during trick-or-treat hours, especially if your dog or cat is curious and likes to get out. Keep them distracted in a separate room where they won’t be bothered by festivities.
Use baby gates or barriers to keep pets out of the way and away from the front door. You could even keep them on a leash or in a crate while inside.
If your dog needs to go outside, be sure to use a leash, even in a fenced yard. Foot traffic, sounds, and costumes can make them anxious and more prone to escape.
Consider a calming aid to help your pet during the festivities. If you have an anxious dog or cat, this can help them stay relaxed through the evening. Talk to your local Banfield vet to see what options are available for your pet.
Some things happen beyond our control, so make sure your pet is identifiable. Dogs and cats should be microchipped, and keep that information up to date. Make sure they also wear a collar with your contact information. You can even add a GPS tracker so you always know where they are.

Pssst! If your dog or cat isn’t microchipped, we can do it at Banfield. This quick, easy procedure can help you get reunited with your pet if they get lost. Make an appointment.

Finding a lost dog or cat

We get how scary it is when your pet is missing, but there's good news. According to the ASPCA, about 85% of lost dogs and cats make it back to their owners. With a little help from the community, your furry friend will likely be home soon.

Here are steps to take if you've lost a pet:

Search the immediate area calling their name. Bring along their favorite treat or toy to lure them back.
Ask your neighbors to keep an eye out for your dog or cat. Post about it on your social media accounts, Facebook community pages, neighborhood apps, and sites for lost and found pets.
Put up flyers with a photo, description of where and when they were last seen, and other info like their name, breed, color, personality, and other identifying features.
Contact local shelters and vet offices in case someone brings them in.

If you find a lost pet, here’s what you can do to help them get home safely:

A good place to start is contacting local authorities. Always be careful around unknown pets since you don’t know their temperament. However, you can set out a water bowl if you’re concerned about their well-being.
Post a picture of the pet on social media. Community groups are often the first place people look when they’re missing a pet. Neighbors can also help identify a lost dog or cat from their street.
Take the pet to a shelter to scan for a microchip so the owner can be contacted.
Notify local pet shelters, rescues, and animal control. They may be aware of a family looking for a pet.

Can you keep a found pet?

If no one claims the lost animal after a certain amount of time and a reasonable effort to find the owner, you may be able to adopt the dog or cat. Call your local animal control or visit their website to check your county’s rules for lost pets and when they’re eligible for adoption.

How Banfield can help keep pets safe any time of year

Give your pets year-round preventive care with an Optimum Wellness Plan. With exam fees included and 24/7 Pet Chat™, you can reach out to a veterinary professional anytime. Whether your furry friend stole some Halloween candy or you want to explore ways to keep your pet calm around any kind of festivities, you have professional advice when you need it. Find the plan that’s right for you.