Your local animal control office may have impounded your straying dog.
Leash laws exist in most cities and counties to protect both people and pets. An unrestrained dog poses a threat to wildlife, children and other pets. Stray dogs are a public nuisance and are at serious risk of injury from fights and auto accidents. If your dog strays from your property, whether because of improper restraints or by accident, your local animal control center may impound it. A few simple steps can help you determine your missing dog's whereabouts.
Instructions
1. Call your local animal control office. The phone number should be in the government listings of your local phone book. Alternatively, find the phone number on your county's government website. If you cannot locate an animal control office in your area, call your local city hall for help.
2. Describe your dog, and his last verified location, to the staff of your local animal control office. Note any distinguishing marks, such as spots, scars, a docked tail, cropped ears or a spotted tongue.
3. Confirm any verifiable information that could identify you as the dog's owner. If your dog has a microchip, inform the animal control staff. They will be able to scan the chip to verify your dog's identity. Also describe your dog's collar and identification tag.
4. Explain the circumstances that caused your dog to stray from your property. In some circumstances, animal control will not release the pet to you unless you confirm that the dog will be kept properly confined. If your dog appears to be sick or injured, your local authorities may require you to get veterinary care for the dog immediately after his release to your custody.
5. Pay any fees associated with your dog's impoundment. These may be higher if your dog received veterinary care while being held. There may be additional fines if you have violated specific leash laws, registration laws or vaccination laws.
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