Brody the pit bull helps Flagler Humane Society capture runaway Buck

It’s happened to most pet owners. A door is left open, a fence is jumped, or a leash is pulled out of hands, and the dog that was once contained, is off and running.

Such was the case a couple of weeks ago when Buck, a hound mix, found just the right moment to get away from the Flagler Humane Society volunteer holding his leash at PetSmart.

The FHS was at the pet supply store, as they often are, getting dogs and cats more exposure and hopefully homes. Apparently Buck thought he could do better on his own.

For days the shelter staff, animal control, volunteers, and people, like Jennifer Popowich, who saw the notice of the missing dog on Facebook -- searched.

“We live near where he got away, so when we were out or when I was going to work, I would keep an eye out for him,” Popowich said.

A notice on Facebook saying he had been spotted near some woods prompted Popowich to get in the car with her kids and her adopted pit bull, Brody.

“We held back and watched,” she said. “It looked like they were going to get him so I left Brody in the car.”

But Buck wasn’t interested in the hotdogs or even the poodle who stopped by – so with a leash in each hand (one around Brody), Popowich walked toward the woods.

“In two seconds he was sniffing Brody,” Popowich said.

While the two new pals were getting to know each other Popowich slipped the extra leash over Buck’s head.

“Brody is my breed ambassador dog,” she laughed. “He is proof that pit bulls are amazing.”

At last check, Buck is still available for adoption at FHS. He obviously gets along well with other dogs, and would like a home where he can run.

Things to know before adopting a dog or cat

1. Are their vaccinations up to date? You should be given a copy of their medical records at the time of adoption.
2.  Do they get along with other animals? Most shelters allow a get acquainted time with the dog you are considering. This generally does not apply to cats.
3. Are they spayed or neutered? All humane societies are required by the State of Florida to spay and neuter dogs and cats prior to adoption.
4. Puppies and kittens may need booster vaccines. Know when these are due, and get them. Half a vaccine is not effective.
5. Typically, adoption facilities do not know a lot about the animal’s background. Personalities and preferences are generally noted by the staff, during the animal’s stay.  Take time to get to know the animal before you adopt.