The template we suggest using is:
Help! [DOG’S NAME] was lost from [LOCATION] at [TIME & DATE]. They are [BREED] with [COLOUR OF FUR] and have [DISTINCTIVE MARKINGS], and were wearing a [DESCRIPTION OF COLLAR ETC]. We live [YOUR STREET/TOWN]. Please don’t try to catch [DOG’S NAME] unless they approach you, just let me know about any sightings asap, call [CONTACT NUMBER].
You can copy and paste this template, replacing anything in [square brackets] with your information, or you can simply use it for inspiration. If you are working with one of our Lost Dog Tracking teams, they may have a template you can use and will be able to give local area specific advice.
If you’re posting on Facebook, you can post to your own page and ask people to share, but the best places to post this information on Facebook are in local area groups or pages (local to where the dog went missing).
If you are posting on any social media, don’t forget to tag your post using local area hashtags.
If you are posting on Threads, X, or BlueSky (or similar), we advise trying to keep your information to a single post for optimal sharing. This might mean linking to your Facebook post or to a DogLost page for further information. You can also use a local area hashtag, but minimal hashtags are usually more effective.
Disadvantages of Social Media
Be aware that there are also downsides to social media posts. It’s rare for posts on social media to be targeted to your local area; posts are most frequently seen by people you are already friends with (and presumably already know about your missing dog!) and by people who share your interests (who could be based anywhere in the UK or internationally).
Unfortunately social media often shows people posts out of chronological order; this means people may not seen your post for days after your dog goes missing, or may not see it at all. This is particularly difficult if there are updates to your post, especially if there is a new sighting in a new area.
These downsides should not stop you from utilising posts on social media! You should simply bear this information in mind, and hopefully shows why you should not rely solely on social media posts to help find your dog.