Four dozen runaway dogs still unclaimed after holiday weekend

SAN DIEGO (CNS) – Four dozen dogs found over the Independence Day weekend remained unclaimed Monday.

The Department of Animal Services reported that 67 dogs that ran off during fireworks shows were captured and placed in shelters.

Only 18 of those 67 runaways have been reunited with their owners.

Last year, 83 dogs were rescued over the July 4 holiday period.

"The best way to protect your dog from getting lost is to license your pet and make sure he is microchipped,'' said Animal Services Deputy Director Dan DeSousa.

Owners looking for their pets can check the department's lost and found web page — at www.sddac.com/lostandfound.asp — to see if they recognize a photo of their dog.

The photos are posted in real time when the animal is kenneled at the shelter.

Owners can also call (619) 767-2675 to see if Animal Services has their dog and get their pet when the shelters reopen Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.

Animal Services said anyone looking for their pet can also use a free app called Finding Rover to see if their dog is pictured there. The app uses facial recognition for lost and found dogs and is used by county Animal Services and the public.
 

County Animal Services contracts with the cities of San Diego, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar and Santee.