Dog gone: Miami ranks high in number of dogs lost, stolen.
Dog gone: Miami ranks number two among cities nationwide where dogs are lost, according to Dog Detective, an online network of owners who have lost and found pets. And the Magic City is number three when it comes to pup abductions.
Labradors are the most common breed lost, according to Dog Detectives records as of the end of June. And pit bulls are the breed most likely to be stolen.
Here are the rankings:
Top three breeds lost: 1.) Labrador retriever; 2.) Chihuahau; and 3.) pit bull
Top three breeds stolen: 1.) Pit bull; 2.) Labrador retriever; and 3.) Chihuahau
Top three cities where dogs are lost: 1.) Houston; 2.) Miami; and 3.) Phoenix
Top three cities where dogs are stolen: 1.) Houston; 2.) Los Angeles; and 3.) Miami.
This is kind of like those rankings that show the most commonly stolen cars.
So: Does this make you, say, less likely to buy a Lab or more likely to buy a Yorkie if you live in Miami?
And I must say: It sure seems like it would be a lot easier to pocket a Chihuahau than a pit bull, but apparently not.
All kidding aside, take precautions to keep your dog (or cat) from being lost or stolen. Some owners have reported animals being taken from their own homes or backyards. Microchip your pets. Keep a current photo of your animal and start posting fliers as soon as he or she goes missing. Be wary of leaving your dog unattended outside, be it in or out of your yard.
(photo from Just Labradors)


ANGIE BRENNAN, a Sun-Sentinel page designer,
lives with four dogs and one boyfriend. And has a lifetime of animal stories to share.
DIANE LADE, a reporter on the Sun-Sentinel's Help Team, has lived with cats, dogs, reptiles, fish, an iguana, and an armadillo.
CYNDI METZGER, editor of the Sun-Sentinel's Outlook section, is smitten with Bella, her poodle who regularly ignores requests to sit, stay and get off the ivory-colored sofa.
JOHN TANASYCHUK, a Sun-Sentinel lifestyle writer, has lived with cats as long as he can remember. He and his partner currently share their home with three.
