Returning a found dog safely

Most people who answer a found-dog post are the real family, and the reunion is a joy. A little checking protects the dog, and you.

Before you post

• Share the general area and date, not your address.
• Use a separate email or a text-only number if you can.
• Hold back one identifying detail such as a marking, scar, collar color or tag shape. The real family will know it.

When someone gets in touch

Ask for one or more of these:

• Photos of the dog with them, ideally from different times.
• Vet records, adoption papers, a license number or microchip registration in their name.
• A description of the detail you held back.

People in a panic may not have papers handy. Photos and the held-back detail are usually enough.

Meeting up

• Meet somewhere busy and public, in daylight, and bring a friend.
• Watch the dog. A happy reunion is usually obvious.
• If the dog is microchipped, the shelter or a vet can confirm whose name it's registered in.

Red flags

• Asking you to pay a fee, or offering a "reward" in exchange for personal details.
• Refusing to share any photo or describe the dog.
• Pressure to meet somewhere private, or to hand the dog to a third party.

If something doesn't feel right, don't hand the dog over. Talk to Animal Services instead.

In Miami-Dade

Make sure the dog has been reported and scanned first. If the dog is chipped, the registered owner should be contacted within 24 hours.