Lost & Found Dogs

Losing a pet can be a heartbreaking experience for any pet owner, but it’s not uncommon. Every year, thousands of pets go missing, and unfortunately, many of them never find their way back to their homes. The good news is that there are steps you can take to increase the likelihood of a reunion with your furry friend. It’s essential to know what to do if your pet goes missing, and equally important, what to do if you happen to find a dog that looks lost. Following the proper procedures and using the available resources can make all the difference in reuniting a lost pet with its rightful owner. To learn more, see our guide below.

older dog adoption

Animal Search UK

Find Your Lost Dog: Essential Tips to Reunite with Your Beloved Pet

Don’t panic, take practical steps.

Things you can do if your dog goes missing.

Has your dog gone missing? Here are some essential steps to take:

1. Ensure your dog is micro-chipped and update your contact details with the database administrator.

2. If you suspect your dog has been stolen, contact the police immediately at 101.

3. Contact your local authority dog warden, via your local council – they are legally responsible for stray dogs and may well have picked up your pet.  Remember, without a tag or microchip, they cannot identify the owner. 

4. Reach out to neighbouring councils as dogs can wander far from where they were lost.

5. Contact local kennels, charities, vet surgeries, and animal hospitals in case your dog has been injured and taken for treatment.

6. Utilise online lost and found websites and create noticeboards in your local area.

7. Register your dog on DogLost, a free national database run by volunteers who can assist in the search.

8. Report your lost dog on Animal Search UK exclusively used by RSPCA inspectors.

8. Ask fellow dog walkers for help by visiting places you frequent and requesting their vigilance.

Don’t panic – take these steps and increase your chances of finding your beloved pet.

 

Found A Dog

Things you can do if you find a dog.

Remember there is probably someone looking for them.

1. Check for a collar or tag with owner’s contact details. Only approach if the dog seems calm.

2. If the dog is displaying aggressive behavior, keep your distance and contact the local dog warden.

3. Report the stray dog to your local council, as they provide a dog warden service.

4. Have the dog scanned for a microchip at a local vet. It’s the law for all dogs to be microchipped.

5. Report the found dog to local animal rescue centers.

6. Check DogLost, to see if someone has reported a lost dog and register the found dog.  It’s a free national database run by volunteers who can assist in reuniting dog with owner.

6. Use Animal Search UK to report the found dog – it’s exclusively used by RSPCA & SSPCA inspectors.

7. Spread the word locally using social media and local groups to let people know you’ve found a dog.

 

Rehoming Stray Dogs

Rehoming Stray Dogs: Temporary Care and Proper Procedures

If you come across a lost dog, you might consider providing temporary shelter until the dog warden arrives. It’s important to keep in mind that a stray dog may be frightened and feeling anxious.

However, it’s crucial to note that it is illegal to keep a stray dog. In the event that you wish to provide a home for the dog, please make sure to leave your contact information with the warden.

If the dog is injured: your first step should be to reach out to your local vet or animal centre for assistance. They have the expertise and resources to provide the necessary care for the dog.  However, if the dog is in immediate danger or in a hazardous environment, it is crucial to contact emergency services right away. Remember, your safety should always be a priority and you should never put yourself at risk while trying to help an animal in need.

By following proper procedures, you can ensure both the welfare of the dog and the adherence to legal guidelines.

Microchipping

Protect Your Pet: The Power of Microchipping

Did you know that it’s actually a legal requirement to have every dog over the age of eight weeks microchipped? And not only that, but you’re also responsible for keeping your details up-to-date.

Don’t risk losing your furry friend forever. With microchipping, you can ensure their safe return if they ever go missing or are stolen. Unlike collars and tags that can be easily lost or removed, microchips provide a permanent and foolproof identification solution for your beloved pet. Keep them by your side, where they belong.

How microchipping works and how it can help reunite you with your lost pet! By quickly and simply inserting a tiny microchip under your pet’s skin, your pet is given its own unique code. This microchip can be easily scanned and matched to your contact details, which are securely stored on a national database like PetLog. Remember, microchipping is only effective if you keep your details up-to-date, so be sure to inform the database if you move or change your phone number.