Many people subscribe to the myth that a dog can find its way home. Well, some dogs can, but most cannot. Most of these dogs have been brought up in a house or apartment and are taken out only within the confines of the neighbourhood, and that too on a leash. They lose their natural instincts. If they’ve just wandered off nearby, chances are that they will come home. However, if they run out because of fire crackers, in all likelihood the dogs are already in a panicked state. So they run recklessly in a panic. Each area has groups of stray dogs. These dogs are extremely territorial and will chase away any new dog. So the dog is chased from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, and he loses his bearings and is not able to find his way home.
So what can you do to ensure your dog doesn’t get lost? Firstly, if you live in an independent house, make sure the gates are always shut. Instruct family members, staff and vendors. If you live in an apartment, keep the front door closed at all times. Always walk your dog with a leash, especially when there are fireworks. When they are scared, they bolt, and often do not listen to the owner.