50 Pics Showing Missing Dogs Returning To Their Homes That Might Get You Teary-Eyed

Temma Martin, Public Relations Manager at Best Friends Animal Society, who has worked at an animal control shelter for 11 years, said that no matter how careful we are, pets can still get lost, so it's much better to be prepared.

"Make sure your pet has more than one form of identification and find out what tags are required by law in your area," Martin told Bored Panda. "An ID tag is inexpensive and generally readily available at local stores. Include your name, current address, and phone number (two if possible). The ID tag is most convenient for anyone in your neighborhood who finds your pet."

In case the unthinkable happens and your pet gets lost, start looking in your neighborhood right away. "Ask anyone who is out if they have seen them, including postal carriers, neighbors, children, joggers, etc," Martin said. "Ask neighbors to check yards and garages where the pet might be hiding. Carry a leash or carrier with you, and make sure to have your cell phone in case someone calls you while you’re out looking."

Next, call all local veterinary practices and all animal rescue centers with a description of your dog and their microchip ID (if they have one). You can ask if they could put up a poster or post something on their website or social media page. If so, they will probably ask you for a recent photo.

"Check local social media pages and online classifieds for your area that post lost and found pets," Martin said. "Other platforms like NextDoor.com can be extremely helpful in posting lost and found pets in real-time."

Post a photo of your lost pet right away, and also keep an eye out for found pet postings. "People in your specific neighborhood may have seen the pet and can suggest where it was seen last. Many happy reunions have occurred quickly because of the power of social media."

You can also visit the shelter the first day if they are open (or call if they are not), and every day or every other day to look for your pet in person. Martin explained that people's perception of breed and description can vary, so relying on someone who doesn't know your pet to find it in the shelter may not be as effective as looking for yourself.

"Check with other shelters in your area and leave your info just in case. While there is generally only one animal control shelter that would serve the particular jurisdiction, there might be other non-profit shelters around (although these don’t often take in stray pets)," Martin said. 

"Create posters with a clear photo of your pet, with a brief description and more than one phone number. Place the flyers around your neighborhood and at local businesses," Martin said.

If your dog does come bounding back to you, greet them warmly. As frustrated and scared as you might be feeling inside, they need praise, not punishment for coming back!

If not, don’t give up! Lost pets have been found weeks, months, or even years after they went missing.