By Natalie Pons, Office Manager at Pawsitivity Pet Services
Losing a beloved dog can be a terrifying experience, but acting quickly and systematically can increase your chances of a happy reunion! In this blog, we will discuss steps to take if you’ve lost your dog in Leesburg, or surrounding areas, to help you bring your furry family member back home!
The information we used for this blog is provided by Loudoun County
Animal Services and their Lost Pet Checklist can be found here.
Search Your Immediate Area
Start by thoroughly searching your home and yard. Dogs can sometimes hide in small, unexpected spaces, especially when frightened. Once you’ve confirmed they are not at home, begin searching nearby streets, parks, and familiar walking routes. Bring a leash, treats and even their favorite toy to help lure them.
Contact Loudoun County Animal Services (LCAS)
Loudoun County Animal Services (LCAS) is an essential resource when searching for a lost pet in Leesburg. Here’s how they can help:
LCAS Lost Pet Checklist: LCAS provides a comprehensive Lost Pet Checklist with tips to recover your pet.
File a Lost Pet Report: You can file a report with LCAS to alert them of your missing dog. Include any relevant details, such as your dog’s breed, size, coat color, and any special markings.
Visit the Shelter: If LCAS has found your dog, they’ll be held at their facility. Visit in person to confirm if your dog is there, as descriptions can sometimes differ.
Microchip
If your dog is microchipped, now is the time to ensure your contact information is up to date through the microchip company. If your dog is not microchipped, you may consider it as a precaution for the future.
If you’d like more information about Microchipping, please see our “Responsible Pet Ownership: Keeping your Dog Safe” blog.
Spread the Word
Inform neighbors, friends, and other local pet owners about your lost dog. Share a clear photo of your dog, their name, any distinguishing features and how to contact you should they find them.
Use community platforms like Nextdoor and Facebook groups, such as “Lost and Found Pets of Loudoun County”
Post on websites like PetFinder and Craigslist under the “Lost and Found” section
Post flyers in high-traffic areas like grocery stores, vet offices, and pet supply stores. Make sure the flyers include your contact information and your dog’s description.
Alert local businesses such as your veterinarian, pet groomer, and/or animal hospital as sometimes when people find a lost pet, they bring them to the veterinarian
Stay Visible
Search for your dog during different times of the day. Dogs can behave differently based on noise levels, traffic and weather. Early morning and late evening could be most effective if your dog is shy or scared.
Remain Patient and Persistent
Even if you do not find your dog immediately, don’t lose hope! Dogs can be reunited with their families days, weeks or even months after they go missing. If you haven’t found your dog, keep visiting shelters, updating online posts and check in with LCAS regularly!
Final Thoughts
Losing a pet is an emotional and stressful experience. However, with the right steps and resources, you can maximize your chances of a reunion. Loudoun County Animal Services is a valuable resource during your search. Stay proactive, ask for help, and keep the hope. If you are a Pawsitivity Pet Services client, contact us right away - we are here to assist however we can and are happy to share resources and photos with our pet owner community.
Sources:
Loudoun County Animal Services Lost Pet Checklist: https://www.loudoun.gov/3281/Lost-Pet-Checklist
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