An example of why you should microchip your pets.

From the AVMA Animal Health SmartBrief-

Stolen NYC dog returned to owners on Christmas

Associated Press

NEW YORK — A dog stolen on a New York City street while its owners shopped for Christmas provisions has been found in time for a holiday reunion.

The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is named Marley. He was returned Tuesday to 7-year-old Mia Bendrat and her family.

The family tied Marley up outside a grocery store while shopping Monday in upper Manhattan. Surveillance video showed a man carting Marley off.

Across town, a stranger later spotted a man offering a dog for sale near Union Square and thought the situation seemed fishy.

Tina Cohen told WINS-AM she bought Marley for $220 so she could take him to her veterinarian's office to be scanned for a microchip. It identified his rightful owners.

A 29-year-old suspect has been arrested on a grand larceny charge.
—Copyright 2012 Associated Press

(I was kind of disturbed that the owner tied the dog up outside the grocery store. Dr. Sakas)