First speak quietly and reassuringly to the dog, who may be frightened .Give the dog a chance to decide whether to trust you. Offer any food you have - a tin of sausage bits kept in the car always comes in handy. At this point you may be able to touch the dog and, if you have a lead with you, slip it round the dog’s neck.

Now you can check for a collar and ID tag and, if possible, call the number indicated. Unfortunately, too many dogs are still not fitted with collars and tags. No ID? Then take the following steps.

If you have a suitable place and are willing to let the dog stay with you while you seek its owners, fine. Alternatively, you may contact a member of AWN for advice and assistance.

You can help find the dog’s owners by putting up posters in the area where you found it. Take out a classified advert. under “Found” in a newspaper and ask AWN to e-mail details of the dog to members. Contact the TTSPCA and ask them to list the dog in their Found Dog Register.

Now hope that that owner’s are trying just as hard to find their pet.