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Right away

• I'm safe, and the dog is safe or I've called Animal Services (311 / 305-468-5900)
• Checked the collar for a name tag, rabies tag or county license tag
• Wrote down exact location, date, time and direction the dog was heading
• Took clear photos from a few angles

Within 72 hours (required in Miami-Dade)

• Microchip scan at a vet clinic or shelter
• If chipped, looked up the number on the AAHA lookup and called the registry (contact owner within 24 hours)
• Filed a found report with Miami-Dade Animal Services' online Lost and Found Pet Form

Searching for the family

• Posted on Fénix Animal Project (fenixanimalproject.org)
• Posted on Petco Love Lost
• Posted in local lost-and-found groups and Nextdoor
• Put up flyers within about a mile of where the dog was found
• Held back one identifying detail to check callers
• Checked lost-dog posts nearby, every day

Caring for the dog

• Quiet room, water and bed, away from my own pets
• Vet visit booked or done
• Secure leash and well-fitted collar or harness for walks

From Bentley's Playhouse · General information, not veterinary or legal advice. Last reviewed October 5, 2026.

Need the reasoning behind each step? Read the full guide.