I found a dog, what should I do in Moscow?

I found a dog, what should I do in Moscow? - briefly

If you find a stray dog in Moscow, promptly contact the local veterinary service or animal shelter. They have the necessary resources and expertise to provide care and locate the owner.

I found a dog, what should I do in Moscow? - in detail

If you have found a stray dog in Moscow, it is crucial to follow specific steps to ensure the safety and well-being of both yourself and the animal. Here is a comprehensive guide on what to do:

  1. Stay Calm: Approach the dog calmly and quietly. Do not make sudden movements or loud noises as this can startle the dog. If the dog seems aggressive, keep your distance and contact local authorities immediately.

  2. Assess the Situation: Look for any visible signs of injury or illness. Check if the dog is wearing a collar with identification tags. If the dog appears to be in distress or injured, contact the veterinary emergency services right away.

  3. Contact Local Authorities: In Moscow, you can call the city's hotline for found animals at 8 (495) 777-76-89. Provide them with your location and a description of the dog. They will guide you on the next steps and may send someone to pick up the animal.

  4. Temporary Care: If you decide to keep the dog temporarily while waiting for local authorities, ensure that it is safe and comfortable. Provide fresh water and, if possible, some food. Avoid giving human food as it can be harmful to dogs. Keep the dog in a quiet, secure area away from other pets or children.

  5. Check for Microchip: If you have access to a veterinary clinic, take the dog there to check for a microchip. This is a common practice that helps reunite lost pets with their owners. The procedure is quick and painless.

  6. Post on Social Media and Local Forums: Create posts on social media platforms and local online communities such as VKontakte, Facebook groups dedicated to lost pets in Moscow, or forums like Pets.ru. Include a clear photo of the dog and details about where and when you found it.

  7. Put Up Flyers: If possible, print flyers with a picture of the dog and your contact information. Place these flyers in prominent locations around the area where you found the dog, such as local shops, parks, or community boards.

  8. Visit Local Shelters: Some shelters may have records of missing dogs reported by owners. Visiting these shelters can help to reunite the dog with its family more quickly.

  9. Patience and Persistence: Finding the owner of a lost dog can take time. Do not give up your efforts, and keep checking with local authorities and online platforms for any updates or leads.

By following these steps, you can significantly increase the chances of reuniting the found dog with its owner in Moscow.