Safety, recovery and life together

Missing Dog Action Checklist

A printable, checkable action sequence for coordinating a missing-dog search without sharing personal records.

Use the checklist

A printable, checkable action sequence for coordinating a missing-dog search without sharing personal records. A tick records an action, not a diagnosis or confirmation that your dog is safe. Print using your browser’s Print or Share menu. Ticks are temporary: they are not saved, stored or transmitted. No personal information is collected.

Missing Dog Action ChecklistCheck the immediate area and safe hiding placesRecord the last confirmed location and coordinate sightingsFlag the registered microchip database and check contact detailsContact the local council/dog warden and adjacent areas where relevantAlert veterinary practices and suitable rescue organisationsReport to police if theft or another crime is suspectedShare a clear photo and safe contact method, retaining private identifying detailsVerify claims independently before payment or collectionRecheck reports and sightings; update notices after reunion

Read the full Lost, Found & Stolen Dogs guidance

Evidence and review

General guidance, not an individual medical, behavioural or legal assessment. The treating veterinary team’s instructions take priority. Search outcomes, recovery and dog relationships vary. Local services and legal arrangements must be confirmed for the location; procedures here are verified for the labelled UK nations and Republic of Ireland, not assumed to apply elsewhere.

Behaviour support should use humane, reward-based methods. Ask your vet about pain or illness and referral to an appropriately qualified clinical behaviour professional for safety concerns. In the UK, the ABTC register identifies assessed roles; check relevant species, role and referral requirements.