I've lost my pet, can you help?

Losing a pet is stressful, but there are practical steps you can take straight away to get them home and safe.

Most pets are found close to home, so get the word out in your neighbourhood quickly:

• Report your pet missing to the local council for the area where they went missing and follow the local process.
• Check that your pet's microchip contact details are current & report your pet as missing on the chip. This will show up if your council or local vets scan them.
• Let local vets know your pet is missing.
• Check your local council shelter or animal management facility to see if your pet has been found, as well as the ones for the councils closest to yours. Pets can travel, usually with humans, so don't forget to cast a wide net if you can't locate your pet.
• Ask neighbours to check garages, sheds and other places where your pet could be hiding.
• Share a clear photo and last-seen location through relevant local lost-pet and community channels.

For the complete action plan, including advice for cats, dogs, birds and small pets, see what to do when your pet is lost.