What to do for lost or anxious pets



 

Experts say it’s not uncommon for pets to feel anxious or to get lost now that people are returning to work and leaving home more often.

“Be aware of what your pet needs, and really watch them,” said Donna Gillesby, deputy director at Ventura County Animal Services.

Like many people, Gillesby adopted a dog during the pandemic. Now that she is not at home with it all day, her pet suffers from separation anxiety—a problem she said many pets and their owners may now face.

To help her dog cope, she gives it things with her scent and toys to distract it, and she invested in a camera that allows her to speak to the dog.

“Give them a lot of time and companionship while they are readjusting,” she said.

Ventura County Animal Shelter has experienced an increase in lost animals as the county has reopened, and Gillesby said this is likely because people are leaving their homes more frequently than during the lockdown.

“During the pandemic, a lot of people were home, so they know their animals were there with them,” said Gillesby, who emphasized the importance of ensuring homes are secure before leaving.

For those who lose a pet, she recommends updating microchip information, putting up flyers in the neighborhood and at nearby schools, filing a lost report, and continuously contacting shelters. For those who find an animal, Gillesby said to scan its microchip at a vet or clinic and contact the shelter to file a report.

Gillesby also encouraged those who have thought about the responsibility to still adopt pets.

“Open your hearts to come and adopt animals,” she said.