Found a Stray Dog?
Here's what you can do to help while keeping the dog safe and out of overcrowded shelters.
IMPORTANT
For a dog to go to the shelter, there has to be a space. If there is no space, then one has to be made and an animal has to leave. Please help us keep dogs out of shelters whenever possible.
What to Do If You See a Stray Dog
Try to Contain the Dog Safely
Check your local shelter and social media for missing pets or other sightings. If you are able to contain the dog and "hold" it until its owner is found, let the shelter know you have it. The shelter is usually the first place the owner will look. NOT EVERYONE USES SOCIAL MEDIA!
Walk Them Around the Area
If you can, walk them around the area where they were found. They may lead you to their home, or someone may be looking for them.
Check for Identification
Take the dog to get them scanned for a microchip. DO NOT GIVE THE DOG AWAY. If the dog has no means of identification and you are in a position to do so, please keep the dog safe and let the shelter know you have it.
If the Dog is Running Loose and Scared
DO NOT call out to it or approach it. Contact Animal Control, giving them as much information as possible:
- Note the time, area, and direction the dog was traveling
- Note the color, breed, and whether the dog is wearing a collar or has a leash on
- Do they appear injured or sick?
- Take a photo or video if it is safe to do so
Check Social Media
Check social media for anyone looking for a lost dog. If you have a photo, post it on social media, asking if anyone is missing their pet.
If Injured or Sick
If the dog appears injured or sick, you can capture them, take them to the emergency vet, and let the shelter know.
PLEASE REMEMBER
DO NOT GIVE THE DOG AWAY TO ANYONE UNLESS IT'S THE OWNER.
THE SHELTERS ARE FULL! If you can take care of the dog until his owner or a temporary foster is found, please do so.
Contact Us
If you have already done the above and the dog has not been contained, you can contact us, providing as many details as possible.
Want to Help More Dogs?
Consider becoming a foster parent or making a donation to help us continue our mission.