The community helping lost dogs find their way home

Key points

• When Barwon Heads resident Daniel Vella's dog Ricky went missing, strangers joined searches to bring him home. Volunteers shared sightings through social media, and some spent hours looking.
• Groups such as PAWSAFE connect volunteers through suburb-based group chats, so they can respond quickly to roaming dogs. The not-for-profit relies on donations to cover petrol and rescue equipment.
• Milly's Search, Trap and Reunite also works with volunteers in the region, with founder Sherri Johnston saying the community is what finds the dog.