Have you ever thought about what would happen if your pet got lost? It’s a scary thought, I know. So today, I want to talk about it because it's been on my mind and heart: the importance of microchipping our pets. Even if your pet already has a microchip, please keep reading. This information could help someone else make the decision to get a microchip for their pet and/or the story I will share may be just the thing to encourage you or someone you know.
As you can imagine, it’s gut-wrenching to discover a beloved pet has gone missing. It’s one of the hardest experiences for any pet parent. When I receive calls requesting help to find a furry loved one after they’ve disappeared, I can literally feel the person’s upset and heartache, so I know it’s not easy!
Why is microchipping so important?
Microchipping may seem like a small thing, but can make such a huge difference in keeping furry loved ones safe and with their families. It’s a tiny, permanent ID that can help reunite lost pets with their families. Unlike collars and tags, which can fall off, a microchip stays with your pet forever!
Peace of Mind
Imagine the peace of mind knowing that if your pet ever wanders off, there’s a reliable way for shelters and vets to get in touch with you. It’s such a simple procedure, and it provides so much security!
A Story to Inspire You
Here's a heartwarming story published on the Good News Network (written by Andy Corbley, June 6, 2024) about a cat that was missing for 12 years, but thanks to a microchip, Artie was finally reunited with his family. It’s incredible stories like this that show just how powerful microchipping can be!
For Those Whose Pets Disappeared
If you’ve lost a pet and they weren’t microchipped, please don’t feel bad. We all do the best we can with what we know. The most important thing is the love and care you’ve given them. Every journey is unique, and there’s always a chance to learn and grow.
What to Do If Your Furry Loved One Disappears
Here are a few things you can do to increase the chances of finding your furry friend. Some may seem obvious, however, during times of stress and elevated emotions the obvious may not always be front of mind.
Search Immediately
Scour the neighborhood, calling their name and checking familiar spots. Bring a favorite toy or treat to help lure them out.
Use Social Media
Post about your missing pet on social media platforms. Include a clear photo, a detailed description, and your contact information. Ask your friends and community members to share the post.
Create Fliers
Create fliers with your pet’s photo, description, and your contact details. Distribute them around your neighborhood, local vet clinics, pet stores, and community centers.
Notify Local Shelters and Vets
Contact local animal shelters and veterinary clinics to inform them about your missing pet. Provide them with a description and a recent photo. Visit the shelters in person if possible, to ensure descriptions are received accurately.
Use Online Resources
There are several websites dedicated to helping find lost pets. Do an internet search for "Lost Pet Websites" or something similar and register your pet as missing. Check them regularly for updates.
Check with Neighbors
Talk to your neighbors and ask if they have seen your pet or if they would take a look around their property. Sometimes pets can get trapped in garages, sheds, or under porches.
Stay Positive and Persistent
It’s important to stay positive and persistent. Keep your hopes up and continue your efforts. Remember, MIRACLES DO HAPPEN!
What to Do for Yourself While Your Furry Loved One is Away
In addition to all of the things you do physically to increase your chances of being reunited with your pet, here are some ideas that combine physical action with the non-physical.
Breathing Exercises
There are various breathing exercises to help slow the breath and calm your nervous system. A couple of examples are somatic breathing and alternate nostril breathing.
Create an Soul Aligned Altar
This idea comes from Shaman, Lisa Lanzetta of Compass North. Creating an altar can be very empowering because it is something you can go to each day with the intention of connecting with your furry family member. Here are the basic steps to create your altar (adjust with your own creativity):
Designate an area for your altar, knowing it will be a place you visit each day. It can be a small table or an area on the fireplace mantel, for instance.
Collect items representing your love for each other and place them on the altar. These may include a photo, a favorite toy of theirs, their leash, perhaps a favorite treat...you get the idea!
Create (and write down, if you'd like) your intention. Your intention connects you energetically to your furry loved one and is a means of calling her/him home.
In the area of your altar, speak your intention aloud and then place each of the items on the altar with reverence.
Talk to your animal companion letting them know you love them and are sending energy (or angels, etc.) to them for their safety and to guide them home. Share what's in your heart and let them know you look forward to holding them again (or whatever is right for you).
Each day, return to the altar and take a few minutes to connect, send love and call your pet home.
Prayer
In many traditions, people turn to various spiritual figures for help. Some seek guidance from the Divine, while others call upon a guru, angels or saints. An example from the Catholic faith is St. Anthony of Padua, who is the patron saint for recovery of lost items.
A definition of prayer is "a solemn request for help or expression of thanks." Perhaps while at the altar you created, you may want to say a prayer tasking for assistance to bring your furry friend home, and also expressing gratitude as you envision your pet's return.
Meditation, Visualization
Some people find comfort in meditative practices or positive visualization, focusing on the hope and joy of their pet's safe return.
I hope these ideas are useful for you or someone you know and help alleviate a bit of the upset if your pet would disappear.
This began with me sharing what's been on my heart about microchipping. Microchipping your pet is one of the best preventative measures you can take to ensure they are returned to you if they get lost. If you haven’t had your pet microchipped yet, it’s never too late. Talk to your vet about it – it’s quick, painless, and could make all the difference.
Lastly, remember, the love and care you provide to your pet are what matter most. Let’s continue to look out for our pets and each other!