Helping more companion animals stay safe, identified, and with the people who love them.
Some simple steps are all it takes to make sure you're always prepared.
A gate left open, a loud noise, a slipped leash, or a visitor at the door can separate a beloved animal from their family in seconds. Humane Canada, in partnership with DocuPet, wants to ensure that, when it happens, the journey home is quick and easy
Thanks to DocuPet, every companion receives a free tag linked to a secure online profile with up-to-date contact information, emergency contacts, and important care details. If a pet wearing a DocuPet tag is found, anyone can use the tag to quickly access the information needed to provide support and help reconnect them with their family. Backed by 24/7 lost pet reunification support, DocuPet has already helped more than 20,000 pets find their way home.
Keep reading for more simple steps to lower the risk of loss even further.
Prevent Your Pet from Becoming Lost
Keep collars, harnesses, and leashes properly fitted and in good condition.
Check gates, fences, balcony access, window screens, and doors regularly for escape points.
Use extra caution during high-risk situations such as fireworks, thunderstorms, holidays, travel, moves, renovations, or when guests are entering and leaving your home.
Make sure your companion always wears visible identification, even if they are microchipped or usually stay indoors.
Keep the licence, microchip, and tag information up to date.
Keep clear, recent photos of your animal in case you need to create a lost report or poster.
Is Your Pet Identifiable?
When a lost animal is found, identification is often the quickest path home.
A visible licence or ID tag allows neighbours, shelters, veterinary clinics, or animal services to contact a guardian right away. Keeping your licence, microchip and contact information up to date gives your companion the best chance of a safe and timely reunion.
If Your Companion Goes Missing
Acting quickly improves the chances of bringing them home.
Start close to where they were last seen, as many lost animals remain nearby while frightened or disoriented.
Then take the following steps:
If your pet is registered with DocuPet or wears a DocuPet tag, you can file a Lost Pet Report through your account. This alerts a 24/7 support team and local pet owners in your community, helping ensure your companion has a better chance of receiving help and finding their way home.
Search your home, yard, garage, sheds, vehicles, and nearby hiding places carefully.
Walk or drive the immediate area and call your companion in a calm, familiar voice.
Contact your local animal services (including shelters) and veterinary clinics to file a report.
Share clear photos, identifying details, your contact information and the last known location with neighbours and trusted local lost-and-found animal networks.
Update your companion’s licence, microchip, tag, or online profile if any contact information has changed.
Continue checking in regularly. Consistent follow-up helps ensure no lead is missed.
What To Do If You Find a Lost Animal
If it’s safe for you, check for a visible licence or ID tag and avoid chasing the animal.
If they are wearing a DocuPet tag, you can use the code on the tag to access their profile and submit a Found Pet Report. You can also call the 24/7 support number listed on the tag for guidance and help providing the care they need while they’re being reunited with their family.
Contact local animal services (including shelters) or a veterinary clinic if the animal appears injured, fearful, or unsafe to handle.
Helping a lost companion return home quickly reduces stress, avoids unnecessary shelter intake, and improves the chance of reunification.
Take Action Today
The best time to prepare is now, not during a search. A free DocuPet tag takes minutes to set up and could make all the difference if your companion ever goes missing.
Want to bring DocuPet's full suite of reunification tools to your shelter? Learn more about DocuPet by visitingpartnerships.docupet.com.
Our generous partner Petsecure is MATCHING all new monthly donations until the end of 2026! Any amount will create meaningful change for animal welfare, each and every month of the year.
