Statistical data are terrifying. Every year, all over the world, more than 10 million animals get lost. How can we avoid losing our favourite animal companion? 

When going for the walk we should attach the address tag to the animal's collar. Remember to include our telephone number there. 

The behaviour of an animal is also important. The address tag can always come off and the chip will stay. Another interesting option is a tattoo made on the ear or the groin of the dog. We will find the list of tattoos at the branch of a kennel club. To read out the individual code from the chip we have to go to the veterinary clinic or to services equipped with the special reader e.g. law enforcing services. If we decide to equip our dog with the chip, we have to register it in the database of tagged animals. It is a good idea to find out when there are organised actions of the tagging animals for free. 

GPS locators dedicated to animals are a curiosity on the market. It should in particular interest the owners of dogs which often like to escape. 

Taking some current photos of our pet is a good idea. They will be useful during the possible search. 

What if the animal goes missing? 

Apart from the search in the surroundings of the place where animal went missing, put up notices in the neighbourhood. Every notice should include:  

- the place and the date of going missing 

- the age and the sex of the animal along with distinguishing marks 

- the number of the tattoo or information about the chip 

- contact number 

Remember about notifying the pounds as well as regular visits in this place. Seek help in associations operating in favour of animals in our surroundings. 

Post on web portals, remember that lost24.pl portal is equipped with the mechanism of automatic matching of found and lost animal/things as well as notifying users about it. It considerably increases the odds to find the lost item.