The reasons a pet decides to run away are many. Boredom, loud noises, separation anxiety, isolation and primal instinct are just a few common reasons. Rarely is it because of a personal slight — pets don’t tend to take offense — but that doesn’t mean your stress as a pet parent is any less.
Both dogs and cats have extremely acute hearing, a natural tendency that works against them. Because of their hearing, they are generally terrified of loud noises, like thunder, fireworks and gunshots. For some, doorbells or car horns can cause a fight-or-flight reaction.
Cats are masters of hide-and-seek, meaning they will run but likely hide not far from home when frightened. Most dogs, however, follow an instinct similar to humans, running as far as possible or fighting back in a stressful situation. In contrast to this instinct, dogs considered passive breeds or those usually confined to a specific area generally hide from perceived danger.
Ways to reduce the risk of your pet becoming a runaway include:
– Make sure your pet is spayed or neutered. Pets who are fixed tend to stay home, lacking the desire to find a mate and breed.
– Always practice responsible pet ownership. Clean and dry bedding, constant access to fresh water, a well-balanced diet and obedience training are the tenants of being responsible.
– Bond with your pet over a game of catch, a long walk or batting a toy on a string through the house. Whatever activity your pet enjoys, it also provides physical and mental stimulation that tells her she is wanted and needed in your family.
– Scatter toys in the yard or house for hours of hide and seek for your pet when you’re away. Having to search out for a new (or old standby) toy will keep your pet entertained.
– Secure your home and yard. Install self-closing doors and gates, increase the height of the fence if your pet can jump over it or make the fence inaccessible by planting trees or shrubs.
If your pet does fly the coop, keeping her identification tags up-to-date and always attached to a collar increase your chances of a happy reunion. Microchipping your pet is a great back-up form of identification in the event of a separation and provides an even greater chance that a runaway pet will make her way home.
If your pet has a tendency to run away or you would like more information on preventing a runaway pet, contact us!