What Happens If A Pet Runs Away When in The Pet Sitter's Care?
In rare cases, a pet may escape while in a Pet Sitter’s care. If this happens, quick action and clear communication are essential to help support the safe recovery of your pet.
The priority is always your pet’s safety, followed by ensuring Mad Paws is notified so the incident can be recorded and reviewed under the Mad Paws Guarantee (where applicable).
Instructions
1. Ensure you are informed immediately
The Pet Sitter should notify you as soon as they become aware that your pet is missing.
Fast communication improves response time and increases the chances of locating your pet quickly.
2. Support immediate search and recovery efforts
Where appropriate, coordinated efforts should begin as soon as possible, including:
- Searching nearby streets and familiar areas
- Contacting local vets and animal clinics
- Notifying local councils or animal control services
- Contacting nearby pounds or shelters
- Reaching out to the RSPCA or relevant local services
Pets often remain close to familiar areas, especially shortly after escaping.
3. Notify Mad Paws as soon as possible (within 48 hours of the incident)
Mad Paws should be notified as soon as possible after the escape is identified so the situation can be documented and reviewed if needed.
Where possible, the incident should be reported within 48 hours of the incident occurring.
- 📞 02 8046 6536 (business hours)
- 📧 trust@madpaws.com.au (include “EMERGENCY” in subject line)
Early notification helps ensure timely support and accurate documentation for review under the Mad Paws Guarantee.
4. Keep a record of all actions taken
Where possible, document key details such as:
- Time and location the pet was last seen
- Search efforts completed
- Communications between Pet Owner and Sitter
- Authorities, vets, or services contacted
This information may be required if a review under the Mad Paws Guarantee is requested.
5. Share behavioural risks before bookings
To help reduce escape risk, it’s important to inform the Pet Sitter before the booking of any relevant behaviours, such as:
- Tendency to bolt or run
- Fence jumping or digging
- Leash slipping or harness escape
- Previous escape history
Clear communication upfront helps reduce preventable incidents.
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FAQs
- What if my pet is still missing?
Continue search efforts with the Pet Sitter and relevant local authorities, and ensure Mad Paws is updated with any new information.
- What if I can’t reach the Pet Sitter or Mad Paws immediately?
Prioritise local search and contact emergency services where appropriate, then notify Mad Paws as soon as possible with full details.