Quick Take
- A Wisconsin cop found a runaway dog, and the solution he came up with for getting it home is as creative as it is hilarious. Watch the viral escort →
- One simple thing dog owners can do dramatically multiplies their odds of getting a lost pet back. See the key recovery tip →
- When your dog bolts, your first instinct could actually make things worse. Here's what to do instead. Learn what to do instead →
- Lost pets are far more common than most owners realize, and the recovery odds may surprise you. Check the lost pet stats →
For many dog owners, the thought of their beloved furry friend escaping is horrifying. However, thanks to the help of the community around us, many of these pups are eventually safely returned. This Instagram post by @cbs58news shows a police officer escorting a runaway dog back to his home. Read here to learn more about these cute escape artists.
A Police Escort Home
The video above is hilarious. The Pleasant Prairie Police Department of Kenosha County, Wisconsin, received a call about a missing pup. The dog got out of the house and ran away, worrying the owners. Luckily, an officer on a motorcycle spotted the escapee. Leash in hand, the cop slowly rode his motorcycle while “walking” the pup alongside him. The adorable moment was caught on camera, with viewers and commenters discussing just how sweet the interaction was. Many praised the officer for his patience. The story highlights the importance of community, especially when a pet is on the loose.
Lost Dog Stats
In the United States, lost or stolen pets are common. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) conducted a phone survey with 1,000 pet owners across the country. Roughly 15% of respondents had reported losing a pet cat or dog in the past five years. Recent studies indicate that about 63% of lost dogs and 52% of lost cats in the United States are successfully recovered. Microchipped dogs have a higher recovery rate, roughly two to three times greater.
If your dog runs away, there are a few immediate steps you can take. The first is to call a local animal control or police station to report the pet missing. After providing a brief description, you will have a few extra sets of eyes on the lookout. At home, you should try to leave familiar-smelling items outside the house. These can include toys or dog beds. Finally, you should remain calm, as panic and stress can deter your dog from returning home. If you spot your escaped pet, approach slowly.
