· If your dog was wearing a collar with current identification tags, your chances are very good that he will be returned to you. Shelters, dog pounds, and sympathetic neighbors will be able to identify the dog and notify you that he's been found.

· If your dog was not wearing an identification tag, he can't speak for himself.

· Check the immediate area thoroughly with as many people as possible. The dog may be locked in a room, stuck in a closet, hiding under a bed, or some member of the family may have taken him out.

· Call your city Animal Control to see if the officers who pick up animals have found your pet.

· Visit area shelters, and talk to personnel. They may not be able to recognize your pet by description, so bring a current photograph.

· Prepare a description of the lost pet. Size, color, breed, ears, length of tail, etc.. Mention any special markings. Call all veterinarians, pet shops, pounds, and shelters. You must call regularly until your pet is found.

· Place ads in daily or weekly papers. Check the "found" column for a possible match. Call those which might be your dog. Many breeds look alike, and may be described differently by various people.

· If you receive a ransom demand or a call regarding the reward, do not meet the person alone. Be sure that someone, (a policeman is a good choice) is with you.

· When your dog is back home, take down your flyers and call everyone and let them know your pet is safe. And if your pet does not have one, get an identification tag immediately.