Lost your dog? A step-by-step plan for what to do right away

Few moments are more frightening than realising your dog has disappeared. The good news is that most dogs that wander off do find their way home — especially when the owner acts quickly and methodically. Panic is the worst adviser, so take a deep breath and work through this list.

1. Search the immediate area. Dogs often do not go far, particularly in the first hours. Walk around the neighbourhood, call out in a calm, inviting voice (shouting can frighten your dog), and ask passers-by. Take along your dog's favourite treat or a squeaky toy.

2. Alert the community immediately. The more people who know you are looking for a dog, the greater the chance someone will spot it. This is where MEDOX really helps: with a single report you notify owners within a 10 km radius, who receive a push notification with a photo and the location. Within minutes, hundreds of eyes are looking for your dog.

3. Call the local vets and shelters. Found dogs are often taken there. Give a precise description of the dog, its microchip number, and leave your contact details. Ask the local dog pound and animal-control service too.

4. Check the microchip details. If your dog is chipped (and hopefully it is), make sure the database holds your current phone number. A vet can identify the owner of a found, chipped dog in moments — provided the details are up to date.

5. Make a clearly visible notice. A sharp, close-up photo, the dog's name, the location and your contact details are the essentials. Share it in local community groups, and if you can, put up posters around the area, at busy spots.

While you search, keep your ears and your phone open, and do not give up too soon. Many dogs only turn up days later, when they get hungry and venture out from their hiding place. Persistence and a wide-reaching alert are the two most important factors.

Prevention counts for a lot too: microchipping, up-to-date details and a collar with a clearly visible tag all improve the chances of a safe return. The MEDOX digital dog passport and QR-code tag help with exactly this — with a single scan, whoever finds your dog can reach your contact details. Download MEDOX and keep your dog's safety in your pocket.