Written by Lost Pet PR | Updated April 25th, 2019
UNDERSTANDING THE SITUATION: Once an animal is running loose, in a panic and fearful of strange surroundings, the entire dynamics of your relationship change. This note is to help you understand what to do/not to do and how body language plays a part in establishing communication with your missing pet. (Note: make sure to go over this with your search team so everyone is on the same page).
• A lost dog "may" come right to you but often they panic and go into survival mode where fear is stronger than food or knowing who you are.
• Fearful pets may run from even their beloved owner. It can be very upsetting to see that but you need to stay calm and not react negatively.
• Do not have carloads of people riding around screaming the dog's name as that alone can cause them to hide, run further or increase their fear.
• Encourage immediate reports of all sightings but stress to everyone not to chase or rush at the dog.
• Share this note and information with your entire team of searchers.
IF YOU COME FACE TO FACE WITH YOUR LOST DOG:
1. Your behavior and actions should remain slow, non-threatening and neutral
2. Do not make eye contact as that can trigger them to bolt
3. Slowly lower yourself to the ground and sit or lie down
4. Keep your head down and do not look directly at the dog
5. Avoid sudden movements
6. Have your attention-getting treat bag handy and slowly toss a treat in their direction. SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS ABOUT THE TREAT BAG.
7. Make sure you don't head out without the treat bag - always be prepared in case you come face to face with your lost dog
8. Speak softly and calmly but in a monotone voice and only if that does not increase their fear level
9. If they back away stop talking and continue to toss treats until you build up enough trust to encourage them to come closer
10. Sudden movements can cause them to run. ONLY reach for the dog if you are SURE you can grab a collar or drop a leash around their neck. It's better to wait another 15 or 30 minutes reinforcing a safe environment than to risk a leap that can set you back for hours or days.
TREAT BAG NOTES: Use of a crinkly type material which can attract their attention in a positive way is recommended, such as foil or waxed paper. This often will hold their interest while providing a familiar and reassuring sound. Use smelly treats such as cut up hot dogs, meaty bits, cheese, etc.
FOR MORE INFO READ THESE ARTICLES:
• Why Your Lost Dog May Not Run Back To You
• "Why Not To Chase a Missing Pet"
KEEP IN MIND: The recovery process doesn't run according to your schedule. It works around what the animal does, their behavior and how soon you are able to establish a trusting environment. For more info follow us on the social links below.
Lost Pet PR | Established in 2011 for the Delmarva Peninsula area, we now
focus primarily on southern Sussex County, DE and Worcester County, MD.
