1. Confirm the last reliable sighting
Ask family members or anyone present who last saw the pet, where, and at what time. Check whether a door, window, balcony exit, or courtyard gate was left open. Keep one short shared note so everyone searches from the same confirmed information.
2. Search home and the immediate area carefully
Look under beds, inside cupboards, in dark corners, behind furniture, and in small hiding places. Outside, calmly check entrances, shrubs, spaces beneath stairs, garages, and closed outbuildings with the owner's permission. Bring a lead or secure carrier and a familiar sound or toy.
3. Ask witnesses not to chase
A frightened pet may move farther away if unfamiliar people rush toward or try to catch them. Ask anyone who sees the pet to record the exact place, time, and direction of travel, then contact you immediately.
4. Alert verified local contacts
Contact nearby veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and rescue groups whose details you can verify. If your pet has a microchip or another registered form of identification, report them missing through the relevant service and confirm that your contact details are current.
5. Share one clear, privacy-safe notice
Use a recent, clear photo. Include the species, colouring, distinctive features, last confirmed place and time, and one reachable contact method. Do not publish identity documents, the complete microchip number, your precise home address, or banking details.
6. Log new information and watch for scams
For every report, record the source, time, and location. If a stranger says they found your pet, ask them to describe an unpublished identifying feature or send a current photo. Do not send money or banking information in exchange for a promise to return the animal.
This material provides general educational information and does not replace individual veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
