A few simple steps can help bring lost pets home, keep them secure
No pet owner ever expects their furry family member to slip out an open door or dig under a fence, but it can happen at any time. During Lost Pet Prevention Month (July), the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center (PRC) is reminding pet owners that taking a few simple precautions can make all the difference in bringing a lost pet home safely.
Whether it's a curious cat sneaking outside or a dog startled by thunderstorms, preparation is the best defense against becoming separated from a beloved pet. One of the most effective ways to protect pets is to have them microchipped and ensure the registration information is always up to date. A current microchip, paired with a collar and visible ID tag, significantly increases the chances of a quick reunion if a pet is found.
PRC also encourages pet owners to routinely inspect fences and gates for potential escape routes and to keep recent photos of their pets readily available in case they ever need to create flyers or online posts.
If a pet does go missing, acting quickly is critical. Pet owners should:
- Search their neighborhood, as most lost pets stay close to home.
- Check PRC's online kennel daily, selecting "Stray/Lost Pets," and visit local shelters in person when possible.
- Upload a photo to Petco Love Lost, a free nationwide service that uses photo-matching technology to help reunite pets with their owners.
- Share clear photos and information on neighborhood apps and local lost-and-found pet social media groups. Include the date the pet went missing, the nearest major crossroads, and contact information.
Community members who find a stray pet can also play an important role in reuniting families. Before bringing a pet to a shelter, check for an ID tag or have the animal scanned for a microchip at a veterinarian or shelter.
If it's safe to do so, temporarily caring for the pet while searching for its owner can reduce shelter crowding and often leads to faster reunions. Posting photos on Petco Love Lost and neighborhood platforms can also help connect lost pets with their families.
At PRC, stray pets without a microchip are typically held for three days before being evaluated for adoption, while microchipped pets are generally held for seven days. Because of these limited hold times, PRC encourages owners of missing pets to check the online kennel and local shelters daily.
For more information about lost and found pets, including frequently asked questions and resources to help reunite pets with their families, visit the Lost & Found Pet FAQs page.