Dealing with a Missing Pet
Your neighbor's pet has gone missing, and you offer help or discuss what steps they are taking to find it.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
missing
When something or someone cannot be found, like a lost pet. Use it to describe situations where an item or animal has disappeared.
worried
Feeling anxious or concerned about a problem. It's common to say 'We're really worried' when expressing concern for a loved one or pet.
shelters
Places where lost or abandoned animals are kept until they are found or adopted. In the US, animal shelters help reunite pets with owners.
posters
Large printed notices with information, often used to advertise or search for lost items. Put up posters in public places to spread the word quickly.
social media
Online platforms like Facebook or Instagram for sharing information. Posting on social media helps reach many people fast when looking for a missing pet.
keep an eye out
An idiom meaning to watch carefully for something. Use it when offering to help look for something, like 'I'll keep an eye out for your dog.'
golden retriever
A popular breed of dog known for being friendly and good with families. Describe pets by breed to help others identify them.
spot
To see or notice something suddenly. Say 'If I spot him' when talking about finding something by chance.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
I haven't seen your dog around lately. Is everything okay?
This is a polite way to start a conversation by showing concern. Use it when noticing someone's absence of a pet or routine. The question 'Is everything okay?' invites sharing without being too direct.
Buster went missing yesterday afternoon. We're really worried.
Use 'went missing' to describe when something disappears. Adding 'We're really worried' expresses emotion. This sentence is useful for explaining a problem and sharing feelings in casual talks.
Have you checked the local shelters yet?
This offers practical advice by asking about actions taken. The word 'yet' implies expectation of checking. Use it to suggest helpful steps in problem-solving conversations.
We've also put up posters around the neighborhood and posted on social media.
This describes efforts made to solve a problem. 'Put up' means to display, and it's a common phrase. Useful for updating others on what you've done to find something lost.
Can I do anything to help? I can keep an eye out when I'm walking my own dog.
This shows willingness to assist. 'Keep an eye out' is an idiom for watching. Use this sentence to offer support in neighborly situations, making it polite and specific.
If you happen to see him, he's a golden retriever with a red collar.
Provides description for identification. 'Happen to' means by chance. This is practical for giving details about a lost pet so others can recognize it.
Don't lose hope. Pets often find their way back home.
This encourages positivity. 'Lose hope' means to give up believing. Use it to comfort someone in tough situations, like a missing pet, based on common experiences.
Your support means a lot. We're really hoping for the best.
Expresses gratitude and optimism. 'Means a lot' shows appreciation. Useful for ending conversations on a positive note when receiving help.