At Abby Cat Daddy, the Feline Advocate Society, we understand how distressing it can be when a companion animal goes missing. The worry and confusion can be overwhelming, but taking swift action can greatly increase the chances of a safe return. While we don’t conduct active searches for lost companion animals, we are committed to supporting our community by sharing posts on our page to help reunite lost animals with their families. Here’s a guide on what to do if your companion animal goes missing and how we can help you spread the word.

What to Do When Your Companion Animal Goes Missing

The first few hours are critical in locating a lost companion animal. Here’s what you can do immediately:

1. Search Your Home and Neighborhood Thoroughly
   It’s important to check your home and surrounding area carefully, as companion animals can sometimes hide in unexpected places. For cats, in particular, small spaces like garages, sheds, or under porches are common hiding spots.
2. Notify Local Animal Shelters and Rescues
   Contact local shelters, animal control, and vets in your area. Many organizations, including the ones in the Lower Mainland, have lost and found services where you can report your companion animal as missing and check their intake records for updates.
   BCSPCA Lost & Found Pet Search
3. Post on Social Media and Community Pages
   Social media can be a powerful tool when trying to locate a lost companion animal. We encourage you to share details about your missing animal on community groups, Facebook, and Instagram. Include a clear photo, a description, and the last known location. Abby Cat Daddy will help amplify your search by sharing your post to our own page, helping to increase visibility.
   Missing Pets Fraser Valley
   Chilliwack Missing Pets
   Missing Pets and Sightings Fraser Valley
4. Put Up Flyers
   Traditional flyers are still a very effective method of spreading the word. Post them around your neighborhood, at local parks, and on community bulletin boards. Include a good photo, your contact info, and any distinguishing features of your companion animal. If you have opted in for pet-insurance many policies actually provide a monetary reward you can offer for finding your companion animal/pet.
5. Check with Animal Control and Local Vets
   Many lost companion animals are brought to animal control or local veterinary offices. Keep checking in with these places, and be sure your animal is on their radar.
6. You can also reach out to search organizations and volunteer groups
   Pet Searchers Canada
   Halo’s Pet Rescue

Tips for Preventing Future Escapes

Once your companion animal is home, consider taking these steps to prevent future escapes:

• Microchip Your Companion Animal: A microchip offers permanent identification that can help reunite you with your companion animal if they go missing.
• Keep Your Cat Indoors: Indoor companion animals are far less likely to get lost or injured. If your cat is used to outdoor exploration, consider a secure outdoor enclosure or leash walking.
• Ensure Your Home Is Secure: For those with outdoor companion animals, make sure your home is properly secured—check fences, doors, and windows regularly to avoid any escape routes.
• Spay and Neuter Your Companion Animal: Many times especially with cats, the reason they escape in the first place is due to their reproductive hormones. They’re off looking for a mate, so if they do escape while intact its important to spay/neuter them right away to prevent any accidental litters, preventing it from happening again and you can get ID. We offer a lower cost spay and neuter program that can be access here.

Abby Cat Daddy’s Role in Helping Reunite Lost Companion Animals

While Abby Cat Daddy does not actively search for lost animals, we are always ready to help by sharing posts to our page to help amplify the search. When you share your post with us, we’ll do our part in spreading the word to a broader audience, increasing the chances that your companion animal will be found and safely returned home.

If you’re in the local area and need help spreading the word about your missing cat, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to support you through the process and ensure your companion animal gets as much visibility as possible.

Conclusion: Don’t Give Up Hope

Losing a companion animal is a heart-wrenching experience, but it’s important to stay proactive and hopeful. By following these steps and getting the word out through social media and local networks, you improve your chances of being reunited with your furry friend. Abby Cat Daddy is here to help amplify your efforts by sharing your post on our page and getting it in front of as many eyes as possible.

Stay connected with us for more resources, tips, and ways to help keep your companion animals safe.