* A Pets-911 Dog Return Story

On this Sunday morning, I found a lost, white dog wandering on my street, and I was happy to find it wearing a Pets-911 tag on its collar. I called the 1-888-PETS911 number and entered some info about the dog via the phone menu, and then went to look at the website, as well. I was easily able to find the owner's telephone number by way of entering the tag ID number.

Or, so I thought!

When I called that number, the lady who answered would only respond, "No English," then quickly hang up. I then called repeatedly, trying different angles.

First, I tried to say "perro blanca" in Spanish. I could discern by her accent, when she again said only "No English," that I was dealing with an Asian language. What to do now?

I called again and tried simply barking into the phone.... Again, "No English!" and CLICK!!

I was beginning to lose hope. After wracking my brain and trying to consult with some friends to see if anyone we know speaks Korean, Cantonese, or any other related language, a few minutes later I decided to simply try to call again. I sat near the dog, now growing anxious, hoping that the dog could do the talking (or whining and barking!) for itself!

This time, the lady seemed more patient with my efforts as the dog and I panted and yelped into the receiver. Then, I said simply, "dog," adding also the name of my street.

When she repeated back my street name, then asked "what color?" I knew I was finally getting somewhere. After managing to convey the size and color of the dog, I could understand that she was trying to say something about her brother. I was able to get her to take down my telephone number.

Soon, the brother called. Fortunately, he spoke slightly better English. It turns out that the phone number associated with the dog's tag is for the sister's family across town.

In any case, he was happy to be re-united with his dog, and asked how I got the number for his sister.

"From Pets-911!"

I only hope he will correct the contact info, because this was not an easy return. Thanks to Pets-911 for their excellent resources, just the same!

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