Carolina Boxer Rescue, like all rescue groups, wants to find homes for dogs that do not have owners.  Unfortunately, we can’t just take in any stray dog that is found, as they may just be lost. We want dogs to be reunited with owners whenever possible, so we have to follow certain protocols according to the law.

• First, make sure to stay safe when catching and containing the dog.  It may be scared and react. It also may have fleas or a contagious illness, so do not introduce it to your own pets.

• Create a post on any local Facebook or Next Door groups- your community might even have a “Lost and Found Pets” group.  Craigslist also has a “Lost and Found” section, and you can also post to Petfinder and Pawboost. Please be aware- sometimes, especially for purebred looking dogs, some people may claim the dog is theirs when in fact it is not.  Make sure that the potential owner has to provide proof of ownership, or be able to tell you special identifying marks on the dog.

• Take the dog into a local vet to check for a microchip, and make contact with the owner if they are chipped

• Contact your county shelter to file a “Found Dog” report, and find out what your county laws are about how long you have to look for the owner.  In most counties, you need to actively search for the owner for at least 10 days

• Create flyers and post them in local veterinarian offices as well as local businesses.  Flyers can also be posted around your neighborhood. Not everyone is on social media, so actual flyers are very important

• If you cannot safely contain the dog (and keep your own animals separate), take the dog to your local shelter.