The owners need to keep a few things in mind:

* Just because the dog was stolen doesn't mean it will be kept on a chain or confined. Dogs have escaped and tried to get home, but they usually just don't know where to go. I knew a gorgeous black poodle that was stolen out of a locked back yard. TWO YEARS later, she showed up at home, beautifully groomed, scratching to be let in the front door.

* The dog may not be in the local area. If someone contacts them from out of town or even out of state, don't brush it off (many people are very stupid about this). If you were selling a stolen dog, would you do it in your own town? Pay special attention when the caller is in a nearby Interstate corridor, or on the same main highway, no matter how far away.

* I know of a few people who swamped the PNW with notices (and even threats) and eventually did get the dogs back. When an area is saturated with flyers and ads, sometimes it becomes just too 'hot' for the thief, and they dump the dog.

* Check the local laws about laboratories. Many states say that labs can't use microchipped dogs without an owner release, but I don't know how well that is observed or controlled. 2008 List of U.S. Animal Research Labs by state

* Dog fighting is a nightmare! If you know anyone who moves in those circles, put the word out, and casually offer a reward.

* If the dog is intact, he may be sold to a puppy mill for breeding. These people are as low as dog-fighters. Some of the Amish are in the business now. Breeders have been known to use a good-looking stolen stud and the papers of a deceased dog. AKC's DNA requirements are eliminating some of this, but the other dog registration companies don't ask for that, and that is where the puppymillers register. This is a list of registered USDA breeders in the U.S.

But there are many smaller, backyard breeders who operate under the USDA radar.

I hope they find him soon. If my dog was stolen and I found the thief, I would... oh, I almost forgot: we're not supposed to discuss illegal stuff here. So, use your imagination in the VINDICTIVE category.

Sue