Searching at dusk and at night: practical techniques

By day it is busy: cars, voices, dogs and bikes. A frightened or confused animal stays hidden. When it gets dark and quiet, many animals finally dare to come out. That is why searching at dusk and at night is often the most effective. Here is how to do it sensibly and safely.

Why search at those times?

Cats are naturally most active at dusk and at night. Lost dogs sometimes only start moving once things are calm. There is less traffic and less noise, and you will hear a reply more easily. So search several times: early morning, at nightfall and late in the evening.

The right kit

• a powerful torch or head torch, with spare batteries or a power bank;
• reflective clothing or a hi-vis vest if you search along a road;
• a charged phone, so you can be reached if someone sees your pet;
• warm clothes, water and sturdy shoes;
• a carrier or lead, gloves and a blanket, in case you find your pet;
• a bag of biscuits or a bowl of food and an item of clothing that smells of you.

Technique 1: the torch

Sweep the light slowly over bushes, hedges, roofs and gardens. The eyes of many animals reflect the light and look like two bright dots. Hold the torch at eye level and avoid shining it straight in a face: a frightened animal may freeze or bolt. Also shine it up into trees and under cars.

Technique 2: sound

• Call quietly and in a low voice using your pet’s name, in a tone it knows.
• Make a familiar sound: shaking biscuits, opening a tin or the clip of the lead.
• Stop after each call and listen. A frightened animal may reply only faintly, or may just be moving.
• Avoid shouting or panic: a tense voice tends to frighten an anxious animal more.

Technique 3: scent

Animals rely heavily on their noses. Put a worn T-shirt, the used litter tray or your dog’s blanket outside, close to where the pet disappeared. Leave a small amount of smelly food in the evening. Check the feeding spot the next morning. A trail camera can also help show whether your pet is visiting.

Technique 4: silence and patience

Settle somewhere quietly, without a light, and wait a few minutes. Your pet sometimes only emerges when you are still. Search with two people if you can: one who moves around and one who stays at a fixed spot to listen. Never chase your pet: a frightened animal runs faster than you can. Sit low on the ground, avoid staring into its eyes and let it come to you.

Searching safely and politely

• Do not search alone in isolated spots, by water or near busy roads without reflective clothing.
• Tell someone where you are searching and for how long.
• Do not enter private property without permission: ring the neighbours’ bell, or look from the street.
• Keep noise down late in the evening and explain to anyone you meet why you are there.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to search?

Early morning, at nightfall and late in the evening. It is quiet then and many animals are active. By day, concentrate on handing out posters and talking to neighbours.

Can I search at night in my neighbourhood?

Yes, but think of the neighbours: stay quiet, limit calling and ask permission for private land.

My pet does not respond when I call. Has it gone?

Not necessarily. Frightened animals often hide and stay silent, even for their owner. Keep searching calmly and give them time.