July Is Lost Pet Prevention Month. This July, Prevent The Heartbreak

July Is National Lost Pet Prevention Month

This July Prevent The Heartbreak💔Of Losing Your Pet😿🐶

Essential Tips From Charlotte’s Pet-Friendly REALTOR®

Why This Matters

Every year, nearly 10 million pets are lost or stolen in the U.S.—that’s about 1 in 3 pets in their lifetime. Even more staggering: a pet is reported missing every 2 seconds in North America.

And here's a heartbreaking fact: 🧨 More pets go missing during Fourth of July celebrations than at any other time of year. The fireworks, crowds, and noise cause many animals to panic and run—often never finding their way home. As pet parents and lovers, we have the power to change that.

Fast Facts About Lost Pets

• 10 million dogs and cats go missing every year
• 14% of dogs and 15% of cats are lost or stolen
• Only 53% of cats and 71% of dogs are recovered
• Roughly 1 million pets are euthanized in shelters annually
  
  

10 Smart Ways to Keep Your Pet Safe

1. Microchip Your Pet. A tiny chip with big impact. Microchipped pets are three times more likely to be returned home. Make sure your contact info is kept up to date.
   
   
2. Add an ID Tag🆔. Tags should include your pet’s name, your phone number, and ideally your address. A secure collar and readable tag can mean the difference between lost and found.
   
   
3. Use a Leash🐕‍🦺—Always. Even the most well-behaved dog can bolt if spooked. Use a leash outside your property, no matter how calm the surroundings.
   
   
4. Train for Recall. Teaching “come” and “stay” commands can be life-saving, especially if your dog slips away or is off-leash in an emergency.
   
   
5. Don’t Leave Pets Outside & Unattended. Especially in areas where wildlife roams—coyotes, hawks, and other predators pose serious risks, even in urban areas.
   
   
6. Secure🔐 Fencing and Gates. Make sure your yard is fully enclosed and escape-proof. Check for weak spots or gaps under gates or fence panels.
   
   
7. Keep Cats Indoors or Safely Contained. Indoor cats are safest (and live longer lives). If your cat enjoys the outdoors, opt for a leash, harness, or a “catio” for secure outdoor time.
   
   
8. Keep Recent Photos 📸 Handy. Clear, current photos can make a huge difference in quickly creating flyers and online alerts if your pet goes missing.
   
   
9. Travel Smart. Use a high-quality, well-labeled pet carrier during travel. In the car, buckle your dog in with a harness or seatbelt restraint.
   
   
10. Secure🔐 Windows and Doors at Home. Check screens and storm doors for stability. Ground-level windows should stay closed, especially if you have curious pets.

Extra Vigilance This July 4th

Fireworks are fun for us—but terrifying for our pets. Take extra steps around the July 4th holiday to keep them from going missing 🎇🐾🕵️:

• Keep pets indoors in a quiet, secure space
• Turn on calming music or white noise
• Avoid taking pets to fireworks displays

PET SAFETY TIPS FOR JULY 4TH

Your Pets Rely On You

Preventing pet loss starts with simple steps and everyday awareness. Whether you’re traveling, hosting guests, or just heading out for a walk—staying prepared can save your pet’s life. Let’s make this July the safest one yet for our furry family members. 🐾

WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE A PET 🕵️

If your dog or cat does get lost, use your social media to post photos and ask everyone to share. Visit your local shelter(s) the first day if possible, and at least every other day to look for your pet in person. The Charlotte Humane Society provides excellent tips on how to go about finding your pet.

HOW TO MAKET A LOST PET POSTER/FLYER: INFOGRAPHIC

These pet safety tips for National Lost Pet Prevention Month are provided by Nina Hollander with Coldwell Banker Realty Greater Charlotte's pet-friendly residential real estate expert and pet parent.

  If you're considering selling or purchasing a home in the Greater Charlotte area, I'd love an opportunity to earn your business, to exceed your expectations, and to show you why experience matters and how:

 "The Right Broker Makes All The Difference"

P.S. If you're thinking about adding a pet to your household, please:

ADOPT, DON'T SHOP!