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First hours

• Searched inside the house, the yard and nearby streets
• Asked neighbors to check garages, sheds and yards
• Left an item that smells like home where my dog went missing
• Called Miami-Dade Animal Services (311 / 305-468-5900) to report my dog lost
• Called my microchip registry to flag my dog as lost and confirm my phone number

Every day or two

• Visited the shelter in person with photos and walked the kennels
• Checked Fénix Animal Project (fenixanimalproject.org) and Petco Love Lost for matches
• Checked found-dog posts in local groups and Nextdoor
• Searched at dawn and after dark with a flashlight and favorite food

Spreading the word

• Reported my dog lost on Fénix Animal Project (fenixanimalproject.org)
• Made a flyer with a clear photo and "LOST DOG" in large letters
• Put up flyers within about a mile (corners, dog parks, vets, pet stores)
• Called nearby vet clinics and Broward County Animal Care (954-359-1313)
• Held back one identifying detail to screen callers

Staying safe

• I won't send money to anyone before I have my dog back
• I'll meet in a public place with a friend

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.