Help! I've found a stray dog/puppy. What do I do?

Dogs can get lost for all sorts of reasons; even the most obedient pup can wander off!

The first thing you should do is check for any form of identification - check the dog’s collar or tag to see if there are any of the owner's contact details on there. Many people use social media and word-of-mouth to help locate the owner, so if you can post the pet in local general or 'lost pet' Facebook groups you will hopefully find them - chances are, they’re trying to find you as much as you’re trying to find them.

If you’re not having any luck, then legislation in most states requires all strays to go to the pound or council for processing. This is so they can be checked for microchipping, and pounds and shelters are one of the first places owners will contact when trying to find their lost pet.

In addition to this, you can use the  PetRescue Rescue Directory to find a rescue group in your area - they may be able to help you out, and advise you on what to do next.