Launched on April 23, 2014, National Lost Dog Awareness Day (NLDAD) was created by Lost
Dogs of America. It is a day to bring attention to the many dogs that are lost each year and
celebrate the dogs that are successfully reunited with their families as a result of Lost Dog of America’s volunteer-based efforts. Losing a pet is a devastating and terrifying experience. For most, it only lasts a few hours but, for far too many pet parents, the experience may lead to permanent separation from their beloved pet due to loss, theft, or death. Prevention is key and we want to help you keep your best fur-ends safe!
National Lost Dog Awareness Day: Lost Dog Prevention
At House of Paws, we believe in promoting loss prevention. The chances of a dog getting lost while properly restrained, wearing proper equipment, etc., are negligible. Because accidents still happen, pet parents should employ layers of safeguards to prevent pet loss. Safeguards give dogs a better chance at finding their way home if ever they become separated from their family.
National Lost Dog Awareness Day: Basic Dog Loss Prevention
To begin with, dog owners should consistently practice the following preventative measures:
Keep up-to-date ID tags on your dogs’ collars
Do not remove collars after walks or outings; dogs should wear their collars 24/7
Properly fit your dog's collar - only one finger should fit between the collar and the skin
Replace lost or damaged ID tags immediately
Microchip your dog and keep your contact information current
Register your dog with the City of St. Louis or your local jurisdiction
National Lost Dog Awareness Day: Dog Loss Prevention At Home
Many dogs are lost because they get out of their house or yard. For this reason, dog
guardians should have the following preventative systems in place:
Use baby gates to keep escape artist dogs away from front and back doors unless the perimeter of the yard is fully fenced
Only open doors slightly when entering and exiting the home
Avoid propping doors open
Tell housekeepers, landscapers, maintenance personnel, etc. that there is a dog on the premises and remind them to close doors and gates behind them
Consider securing your dog(s) in a safe space like a crate or room when work is being done in and around your home
Lock exterior doors to prevent them from accidentally blowing open during severe weather
Hire a professional pet sitter when traveling, never the kid next door
National Lost Dog Awareness Day: Dog Loss Prevention away from Home
Many dogs are lost while out on hikes, walks, etc. These dogs are usually lost because they
were not wearing proper equipment. To prevent adventures-gone-wrong, follow these important
guidelines in addition to those noted above:
Use a properly sized no-pull restraint or harness for walks, especially for reactive and skittish dogs that may pull out of their collar
Stick to standard 6-foot leashes and avoid retractable leashes, which can break or snap
Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions
Keep your dog away from strange dogs to prevent fights that may result in your dog pulling or running away
Keep your dog on a leash at all times; you never know when your dog may be spooked or when their prey drive may kick in and send them running
Pay attention when opening and closing car doors and consider a vehicle restraint like a seatbelt, travel crate, or carrier to keep your dogs secure when making pitstops
Because we at House of Paws Pet Care operate in a way that prioritizes pet loss prevention, our team goes above and beyond to protect the pets in our care. We have policies in place that ensure your pet's safety as well as your home's security. If you have any special circumstances that you'd like to bring to our attention - renovations, maintenance, or malfunctioning locks, please contact us before your next scheduled appointment. Again, prevention is key and communication makes prevention possible.
To learn more about our dog walking, dog adventure, and pet sitting services, contact us at
(314) 690-5154 or email Houseofpawspetcarellc@gmail.com. If you're ready to book services in one of our service areas submit a new client form to begin our registration process.
House of Paws proudly serves Eureka, Wildwood, Ballwin, Manchester, Maryland Heights, Des Peres, Fenton, Chesterfield, Valley Park, Ladue, Creve Couer, Town & Country, Kirkwood, Sunset Hills, Clayton, Webster Groves, Maplewood, The Hill, South City & Affton.
We look forward to caring for your paws-itively perfect pet(s)!