It would have never happened on Melrose Place

Melrose Place actress Brooke Burns and her 9-year-old daughter Madison are upset over the disappearance of their black maltipoo, Max. The 3-year-old dog ran out a door that had been left open by some painters. According to Burns's rep, a neighbor near Burns' Toluca Lake, Calif., home spotted a couple pick up the dog. It has been reported that the dog was not wearing any tags.

I am going to give Ms. Burns the similar advice I gave to Ms. Hilton when her ChiChi, Tinkerbelle, had gone missing in 2004:

1. Make a flyer. Use 8 X 11 fluorescent paper for higher visibility. Use a recent picture of your pet to make it easier for someone to spot her. List the date and place your dog was lost, breed, sex, age, weight, color, markings and a contact number. (Never give out all the identifying features so that if someone claims to have found your pet , they will be able to convince you by providing you with a full description.) Offer a reward. Post flyers at eye level on utility poles within a one mile radius from your home. Also, place them at veterinary offices, pet shops, grocery stores, grooming shops and neighborhood restaurants and local businesses. Frequently replenish flyer supplies at these locations.

2. Walk the neighborhood. Take turns with family members and walk around the neighborhood during day and night hours. Carry a flashlight to check in dark places. Also, bring your pet's favorite squeaky toy and dog treats. Call her name and make familiar sounds that she regularly hears. It is important to stop often, be quiet and listen for your pet's reply.

3. Tell your neighbors and those working in your neighborhood. Go from house to house and introduce yourself. Explain that your dog is missing. Tell neighborhood staff (housekeepers, guards, caretakers, gardeners) and municipal workers (postal carriers, garbage pick-up crews, police officers). Give them a flyer so that they can help you find your dog.

4. Visit your local animal control, humane societies, animal shelters. Control agencies usually keep an animal for only three (3) days. Visit these organizations by taking turns with family, friends and others. Leave flyers so that they can look for your pet too!

5. Find out if your pet has been killed on the road. Call the city, county and state department of transportation to see if you pet may have been killed on the road. Dogs are generally picked up every 24 hours.

6. Beware! Never wander around the neighborhood alone looking for your pet. Also, be cautious if some calls claiming to have your pet. Have them meet you with a family member or friend at a public location.