What You Should Do (& Not Do) If You Find a Lost Dog
Finding a lost dog can be scary and dangerous for both you and the dog. Before the panic sets in and you act on impulse, take a deep breath and think about the options that you have available. There are some steps that you should and shouldn’t take after finding a lost dog, so it’s important that you proceed cautiously moving forward. This article will help you better understand what options you have when you find a lost dog so that you can do the right thing if you’re ever put into such a situation.
Check the Tags
First and foremost, check the dog’s tags. If the owner knows anything about how to prevent their dog from running away and how to make sure they don’t lose their dog if they do run away, the dog should have updated tags with their name, the owner’s contact information, and any other information that someone finding the dog should know. While many dogs may not have updated tags, this is always the first step that you should take when finding a lost dog. Give the owner a call and let them know that you found their dog wandering around. They’ll be more than grateful to know that their dog is safe!
Alert the Authorities
If no one answers your call or the dog’s tags are absent or not up-to-date, you should contact the authorities. Many times, owners of lost dogs will alert the authorities that their pet is missing. Contacting the police may be one of the easiest ways for you to reunite the dog with their owner. Additionally, the police will be of great help if you’re dealing with a dangerous or poorly behaved dog that you don’t feel safe handling. They’ll help you feel at ease and will know who in your community to alert about the dog.
Take Them to the Shelter
Dog shelters can get a bad reputation among dog owners and community members. However, most dog shelters care for strays and provide them with a home before their owner turns up to pick them up. Shelters are also one of the first places that owners will turn to find their lost dog, so by turning their dog into the shelter, you’re making it easier for dog and owner to be reunited. Even if you don’t feel comfortable leaving the dog in the shelter, you should check with them to see if the dog has been microchipped. You should also enter their information with the shelter to log them as a lost dog. This way, the owners will be able to contact you if they go to the shelter.
Finding a lost dog can be overwhelming, but hopefully this guide provides you with some sense of relief that there are safe and effective options for you to help reunite the dog with their estranged owner. Be safe and remember that sometimes, the safest place for a lost dog is not with you!