July is Lost Dog Prevention Month: The Canine School of Trailing Launches Scent Article Kit to Help Bring Pets Home
Every year, thousands of dogs go missing in the UK. July, designated as Lost Dog Prevention Month, is a vital reminder that preparation can make all the difference in reuniting families with their beloved pets.
This year, The Canine School of Trailing is proud to launch a practical new tool to support owners: the Scent Article Kit—a simple, effective way to be ready before the unthinkable happens.
Why a Scent Article Matters
When a dog goes missing, time is of the essence. Trailing dogs—highly trained to follow a specific scent—work best with a clean, uncontaminated scent article to begin their work. This is where preparation is key.
“A scent article can be the difference between a successful search and a heartbreaking ending,” says Marilyn Gilchrist, founder of The Canine School of Trailing. “Having one ready means we can start looking right away.”
The new Scent Article Kit includes everything needed to collect and store your dog’s unique scent safely, along with clear step-by-step instructions to make it easy for any pet owner. It’s one of those things you hope you never need—but will be incredibly grateful for if you do.
Top Tips if Your Dog Goes Missing
- Stay calm, act fast: Panic spreads quickly—keep your head clear.
- Don’t chase: You may unintentionally drive your dog further away. Sit down, call gently, and wait if safe. Leave your house door open if possible – your dog may make their way home.
- Leave worn items of clothing: Dogs often circle back to familiar scent points.
- Contact local services: Inform vets, wardens, microchip companies and trailing teams quickly.
- Use social media smartly: Clear photo, last seen time and place and whether they are likely to run if approached. While offering a reward may be tempting proceed with care as this could lead to false sightings.
Lost Dog Prevention Month is about being proactive—not reactive. With the right tools, including a pre-prepared scent article, you’re already one step ahead.
The Canine School of Trailing’s Scent Article Kit will be available via their website:
👉 https://thecanineschooloftrailing.co.uk
Let’s work together to prevent heartache and bring more dogs home safely.
For press enquiries, interviews or to request a Scent Article Kit for review, please contact:
Marilyn Gilchrist
07796 177 553
admin@thecanineschooloftrailing.co.uk
The Canine School of Trailing
The Canine School of Trailing is a specialist training provider, offering scent-based trailing programmes for pet dogs and their people, founded by Marilyn Gilchrist and Rachel Rodgers. With a strong reputation for ethical, evidence-based instruction, the school delivers beginner to advanced training, as well as a highly regarded Instructor Course designed for professionals in the canine industry.
Built on the belief that all dogs have the ability to trail, the school welcomes a wide range of breeds, ages and abilities — including reactive, blind and deaf dogs. Trailing not only channels a dog’s natural instincts but also supports behaviour, mental wellbeing and the bond between dog and handler.