OUR APPROACH & LOST PET RECOVERY TIPS

At Gotcha Recovery & Rescue, we know that losing a pet is one of the most stressful experiences a family can face. Every situation is unique. Whether it's a pet slipping out of the yard or traumatic events like accidents, no two recoveries are the same. While we cannot guarantee outcomes, our mission is to educate, guide, and empower families to safely reunite with their pets, whenever possible.

OUR APPROACH

We focus on strategy over speed, emphasizing safety for both pets and humans. Here’s how we work.

TRAUMA INFORMED BEHAVIOR ASSESSMENT

Every missing pet reacts differently depending on stress, injury, and personality. Understanding their likely behavior after trauma is the first step in safely locating them. This helps prevent actions that could scare them further or increase risk.

STRATEGIC GUIDANCE & PLANNING

We provide families with step-by-step recovery strategies, tailored to the situation:

• • Identifying likely hiding spots

  • Safe tracking and monitoring techniques

  • Timing interactions to reduce stress

  • Coordinating capture without chasing or cornering

LEAD TRACKING & VERIFICATION

Instead of relying on guesswork, we teach families how to follow verified sightings, track movement patterns, and determine safe capture opportunities; all while keeping the pet calm and protected.

HANDS-ON & REMOTE SUPPORT

Some cases require direct, on-the-ground assistance. Others can be managed entirely through phone or virtual guidance. Our expertise adapts to your situation to maximize safety and minimize risk.

FAMILY SUPPORT & EDUCATION

We know the emotional toll of a missing pet. Our goal is to support families with knowledge, reassurance, and practical guidance, empowering them to make informed decisions every step of the way.

LOST DOG RECOVERY TIPS

• Stay POSITIVE, Calm & Plan: Panic can lead to mistakes. Observe, assess, and strategize before taking action.

• Avoid Chasing: Frightened pets will often run farther if pursued. Calm, patient approaches work best.

• Use Scent & Familiar Items: Items with your pet’s scent (blankets, toys, bedding) can help draw them back safely.

• Document & Verify Sightings: Take notes, photos, or GPS data when a pet is spotted. Accuracy matters more than speed.

• Communicate & Coordinate: Work with neighbors, local rescues, and shelters, but provide clear instructions to avoid overcrowding the area.

• Know When to Ask for Expert Guidance: Early guidance from an experienced recovery team can prevent missteps and improve safety.

WHY IT MATTERS

Lost pet recovery isn’t about guarantees. It’s about strategy, knowledge, and patience. By combining experience, humane techniques, and careful planning, families can increase the chances of a safe, stress-free reunion while avoiding common mistakes that can prolong or complicate recovery.

Education. Compassion. Strategy. 

That’s the heart of Gotcha Recovery & Rescue.