Finding a lost dog can be stressful, for both you and the dog. Taking the right steps can greatly increase the chances of reuniting them with their family.

First Steps

• Check for identification. Look for a collar with a license or ID tag and contact the owner immediately if information is available. If there is a tag and you can’t get in contact with the owner for any reason, our volunteer Microchip Hunters’ Team may be able to help.  Submit the tag information here:  https://form.jotform.com/90818285559976
• Have the dog scanned for a microchip as soon as possible. Any veterinary clinic, police department, or animal control agency can scan for a microchip at no charge.
• Record the microchip number. If a microchip is found, write down the number or take a photo of the scanner display. Having the microchip number available is important if additional research is needed.
• If the microchip leads to a dead end, contact our Microchip Hunters team. If you can’t find the owner information, the registered contact information is outdated or the owner cannot be located, our volunteer Microchip Hunters may be able to help research the chip. Submit the microchip number here: https://form.jotform.com/90818285559976
• Ask nearby neighbors. The dog may have wandered only a short distance from home.
• Report the found dog. Contact your local animal control agency or police department (non-emergency number) to report that you have found a dog. If you are unable to safely care for the dog while searching for the owner, ask your local animal control agency about your options.

Spread the Word

• Create a Found Dog report on PetFBI.org.
• Register the found dog with 24Petconnect. This database is used by many shelters to help reunite lost pets with their families.
• Post the dog on local social media, including Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Neighbors by Ring app.
• Check PetFBI.org and Lost Dogs Illinois to see if anyone has already reported the dog missing.
• Post clear FOUND DOG flyers in the neighborhood where the dog was found and at local veterinary clinics, pet supply stores, community bulletin boards, and other pet-related and nearby businesses.
• Place a large, easy-to-read sign near the location where the dog was found to alert nearby residents.

Before Returning the Dog

If someone contacts you claiming to be the owner:

• Ask them to describe the dog before you provide details. They should be able to identify unique markings, behaviors, collar, or other distinguishing characteristics.
• Request proof of ownership, such as:
  • Veterinary records
  • Rabies certificate or license
  • Adoption or registration paperwork
  • Photos of the dog with family members

When meeting to return the dog, choose a safe public location, such as a veterinary clinic, police station parking lot, or another well-populated area during daylight hours. Let a friend or family member know where you will be or bring someone with you.

A Note About the Dog’s Behavior

Don’t be concerned if the dog doesn’t immediately recognize or run to its owner. Dogs that have been missing for an extended period may have entered survival mode, a fear-driven, instinctive state where their normal behaviors and responses are temporarily suppressed. It can take time for them to relax, process familiar scents and voices, and recognize their family.

Important Reminder

It is illegal to place flyers inside, on, or attached to U.S. mailboxes without authorization. Instead, distribute flyers door-to-door, post them on community bulletin boards (where permitted), or hand them directly to residents.