• Pet Registration: Require all pets to be registered with the community upon move-in. Collect details such as pet name, breed, color, distinguishing features, and contact information for the owner. Additionally, encourage residents to comply with local ordinances on licensing; this is yet another way to help lost pets get back home should they need assistance from local agencies. Here's an example of an "All About My Pet" form you can use with residents.
• ID Tags and Microchipping: Encourage residents to keep their pets' identification tags updated and on at all times, and suggest microchipping for easier recovery. Offer microchipping services during community events or partner with local vets or the local animal shelter serving the community. Even consider purchasing a microchip scanner, and use this link for ease of researching the chip.

• Digital Alerts: Use community apps, text alerts, or email blasts to notify residents immediately when a pet goes missing, including details, photos, and contact information for the owner.
• Free Apps: Consider encouraging the use of Neighbors (Ring camera social app that does not require ownership of a Ring camera), which has launched Pet Profiles. This can help quickly reunite pets and their families by notifying surrounding neighbors, including important details about their pet(s). A Lost Pet Post can be created with just a few taps.
• Physical Notices: Post lost pet flyers in common areas, such as elevators, mailrooms, lobbies, and pet parks.
• Social Media Groups: Create a private Facebook group or other social media platform dedicated to residents where lost pet alerts can be posted quickly.

• On-Site Search Team: Have a plan in place for staff, residents and/or designated volunteers to help search for lost pets on the property. Ensure they are trained to approach and handle pets safely (partner with a local pet trainer to conduct a session).
• Emergency Contact List: Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including local animal control, nearby vets and pet shelters to notify in case a lost pet is found outside the community. Local groomers may also be helpful as they are familiar with many pets.
• Lost Cat Recovery: Recovering a lost cat can be quite different from lost dog recovery; organizations like the Pet FBI organization which provides helpful tips for all types of lost pets, as well as found pets. Lost Cat Finder is another helpful resource.

• Lost Pet Holding Area: Establish a secure holding area where found pets can be safely kept until reunited with their owners. This could be a pet-friendly office or a designated space with water, bedding, and temporary enclosures.
• Lost Pet Kit: Equip the area with leashes, crates, food, and water supplies to care for pets temporarily.

• Lost Pet Protocols: Educate residents on the steps to take if their pet goes missing, including who to contact and how to share information quickly.
• Community Pet Watch Program: Encourage residents to be vigilant and report stray pets they encounter on the property. Consider a small reward or recognition for those who help return lost pets.
• Prevention Awareness: Many pet owners simply don't think about the loss of a pet until it's too late. Here is a free course to help educate pet owners.

• GPS Tracking Solutions: Promote the use of GPS-enabled collars or trackers that can help locate lost pets quickly. Offer discounts or recommendations for reliable brands.
• Pet-Finding Apps: Integrate with apps like Nextdoor, PawBoost or FidoAlert (as well as Neighbors mentioned above) that specialize in finding lost pets, or create a community-specific feature within the apartment's resident app. Petco LoveLost is another great tool that incorporates facial recognition.

• Staff Training: Ensure property management staff are trained on lost pet protocols, including who to contact, how to approach a lost pet, and how to communicate with the pet owner effectively.
• Incident Reporting: Keep a record of lost pet incidents to improve the recovery process and identify any patterns, such as frequent escape points or gaps in fencing.

By implementing a Lost Pet Recovery Plan, pet-inclusive communities show a deeper commitment to the care and protection of their residents' pets. From utilizing the latest technology to fostering community involvement, these strategies can make a significant difference in how lost pets are recovered and how strong the bonds between neighbors grow. Through proactive education, clear protocols, and a supportive environment, we can ensure that when a pet goes missing, it's only a temporary separation—and a swift and safe reunion is just around the corner.