Strays at Valley Farm

Hundreds of pets go missing from homes each year. It is a traumatic time for everyone, owners, carers, pets and even the finders. Only some of these pets are lucky enough to be reunited with their owners.

Like all veterinary practices we are obliged to take in strays. We will scan all stays for a microchip and contact owners if the animals are chipped.
We prefer not to take in healthy strays as they are often very disruptive to our patients. Our wards are often very busy and it is not possible for us to keep stays for more than a day or two. We take unclaimed stays to the SPCA with a note of where they were found, etc.
Sick or injured strays will receive emergency treatment and will be kept pain free and comfortable until an owner can be traced. 

Why pets go missing

• Gate left open or fence not secure. Keep your dog somewhere secure when workmen or garden services call.
• Inadequate training. Keep some doggie treats with you as a reward for when your dog comes back.
• Dog or cat on heat in the area. Unneutered males and females will do their utmost to get to each other. If you are not planning to breed, you should neuter. 

Solutions

• A radio fence with collar receiver for each dog or cat will prevent even the most persistent escapees! These are easy to install and there is no effect on the appearance of your property.
• Microchip. This is an easy, affordable, life-long way of identifying your pet. Chips can be implanted very easily into any pet by most veterinary practices. All vets and rescue organisations have scanners to read these chips. This is the quickest and most reliable way of getting your dog or cat back.
• Collar and Tag – All pets should have a collar and tag with your contact details.

What to do if your pet does get lost

• Put up posters in your area.
• Look at notice boards and signs in your area. 
• Phone all local veterinary practices, not just your practice.
• Phone SPCA (012 803 5219), Wetnose (013 932 3941) and any other local welfare organisation.
• Visit the SPCA. Often they do not know what they have in their kennels. 
• If you use a pet sitter make sure they know where to look if the pet goes missing. The Municipal Pound law states that dogs need to be kept for only 7 days before they can be re-homed.
• Make use of any local newsletters, community mailing lists, etc.