What to Do if You Find a Lost Dog in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, B.C.

Found dog!

Finding a lost dog can be a heartwarming yet stressful experience, especially if you're not sure how to reunite the dog with its owner. If you’re in the Metro Vancouver or Fraser Valley areas, knowing the right steps to take can make a big difference in ensuring the lost dog is safely returned home. Here's a guide on what to do if you find a lost dog in this region.

1. Ensure the Dog's Safety

The first step is to ensure the dog is in a safe place. If the dog is wandering near busy roads or in dangerous areas, try to calmly coax it into a secure spot. Dogs may be frightened, so approach them gently and avoid any sudden movements. If you have a leash, use it to guide the dog to a secure area like a yard or your vehicle.

2. Check for ID Tags

Most dogs wear collars with ID tags that can provide valuable information. Look for a phone number, address, or name on the tag. If the dog has a tag with the owner's contact information, you can directly call or text them to arrange a safe return.

If the dog doesn’t have a tag, don’t panic—there are other ways to identify the owner.

3. Take the Dog to a Local Vet or Shelter

Veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and rescue organizations in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley are equipped to scan dogs for microchips. Microchips are tiny, implantable devices that contain the owner's contact information. If the dog has a microchip, this will significantly increase the chances of reuniting them with their owner.

Some places to visit include:

BC SPCA Vancouver Branch

BC SPCA Abbotsford Branch

Fraser Valley Humane Society

Local veterinary clinics

4. Report the Found Dog on Social Media and Online Platforms

Social media is an incredibly effective tool for connecting lost pets with their owners. Here are some helpful platforms and groups to post about the found dog:

Facebook: Check for local community groups like "Lost and Found Pets Metro Vancouver" or "Fraser Valley Lost Pets."

Instagram: Post a photo with details about where and when the dog was found, using local hashtags like #LostDogVancouver or #FraserValleyPets.

Craigslist Vancouver: Post under the “Lost and Found” section.

Nextdoor: This neighborhood-based social network allows you to share local updates, including lost pets.

Petfinder: A great resource to notify local shelters and rescue groups.

When posting on these platforms, include a clear photo, the location where you found the dog, and any distinguishing features.

5. Contact Local Animal Control or Rescue Services

If you can't find the owner through social media or the dog doesn’t have an ID tag, contacting local animal control or a rescue organization is a good next step. Animal control can scan for microchips and keep the dog safe until the owner is found. Additionally, animal rescues often have databases of lost pets and can help spread the word.

City of Vancouver Animal Control

Fraser Valley Regional District Animal Control

BC SPCA

6. Consider Temporarily Fostering

In some cases, the owner may take time to be found. If you're comfortable, you may be able to foster the dog for a short period until the owner comes forward. Make sure to update the local shelters and social media groups that you are temporarily caring for the dog so the owner can contact you directly.

If fostering isn’t an option for you, rest assured that local shelters will provide the care the dog needs until the owner is found.

7. Don’t Give the Dog Away or Sell It

It’s essential to remember that the dog likely belongs to someone who is missing their pet dearly. While you may be tempted to rehome or sell the dog, it's crucial to give the rightful owner time to find their pet. Always use official channels like animal shelters or rescue organizations to ensure the dog ends up in the right hands.

8. Be Patient and Persistent

Reuniting a lost dog with its owner can take time, but patience is key. Continue monitoring online platforms and checking in with local shelters. Owners often search for their pets for weeks or even months after they go missing.

Conclusion

Finding a lost dog in Metro Vancouver or the Fraser Valley can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. By following these steps, you can help reunite a lost dog with its owner and ensure the safety and well-being of the dog. The most important thing is to act quickly and use all available resources to increase the chances of a happy reunion.

If you’ve found a dog, you’re already making a huge difference in their life—thank you for your kindness!