Highlands residents Brenda and Rick Baker were busy dropping off Christmas cookies when they noticed a stray dog, well groomed, but without a collar, wandering the neighborhood.

Acting as good samaritans, they searched for the pet’s owners for hours until they found a friend’s home where the dog could find temporary food and shelter.

The black and tan neutered male hound or hound-mix, which weighs around 70 to 75 pounds and is estimated to be about a year old, is very friendly but somewhat shy, say the Bakers. They first noticed the hound around 6 p.m. near the intersection of 102nd Avenue and 116th Street. Their golden retriever had run over to play with him in the snow.

After the couple asked around if neighbors had lost their pet, they drove down to the Kirkland Animal Hospital to check for any identifying microchip (there was none) or if anyone there recognized the short-haired pooch.

“He’s definitely well loved,” Brenda said, “and I’m sure he’s missed.”

After checking with several residences in the neighborhood, they found friends Gary and Cynthia Hattal had temporary room for the mystery dog.

The Hattal and Baker families are anxious to reunite the pet to its rightful owner. Anyone who is missing a dog that fits the hound’s description is encouraged to contact the Hattals at 425-828-4447, or 425-260-2093.

Kirkland Reporter Staff Writer Kendall Watson can be reached at kwatson@kirklandreporter.com or 425.822.9166 ext 5052.