Miami Gardens police announced Sunday that Gael, a 2-year-old Labrador missing since the previous Monday night, had been found safe. The police K-9 was reunited with his handler and returned home after a search lasting several days.
Gael disappeared while officers were responding to a business alarm in Miami Gardens. Police said an officer opened the rear door of a patrol vehicle, and Gael got out, ran across Northwest Second Avenue and did not respond when his handler tried to recall him.
The response began at about 9:35 p.m. in the 200 block of Northwest 195th Street, according to an account of the initial police search. Investigators later determined that a vehicle struck Gael after he ran from the area. He continued eastbound, police said.
The available accounts do not identify the vehicle or driver. They also do not say whether the collision remains under investigation.
A search across the surrounding area
All available Miami Gardens police patrol units began looking for Gael, with help from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit. Officers also canvassed the surrounding area, and mobile command trucks were deployed as the search continued through the week.
The department asked the public for information, but no confirmed sightings were initially reported. Steadman Stahl, president of the South Florida Police Benevolent Association, said Gael specializes in recovering illegal firearms and described such a prolonged disappearance as unusual.
Miami Gardens police provide several roles for dogs in the department’s broader Canine Unit. Depending on their training, its dogs may search for narcotics or explosives, assist with building searches, track suspects, locate missing people and support patrol officers. The department has not provided further details about Gael’s training or service history.
A resident’s call ends the search
The break came Sunday when someone called police after believing Gael was outside a home near North Miami Avenue and Northwest 191st Street. Officers responded immediately and confirmed that the dog was Gael, according to the recovery account.
Police took Gael to VCA Animal Hospital for treatment and evaluation. He stayed overnight for additional observation, and the department said he appeared to be in good health while his evaluation continued as a precaution.
That update provides a limited picture of Gael’s condition. Officials have not documented a specific injury, diagnosis, course of treatment or restriction on his police duties, so his apparent health after the search should not be read as a complete veterinary finding.
Police credited the resident whose call led officers to Gael and thanked law enforcement partners and community members who helped search and shared information. The department did not name the resident or Gael’s handler.
The confirmed outcome is that Gael was located after several days, evaluated at an animal hospital and reunited with his handler. Police said he was back home, closing a search that began with an alarm response and carried added concern after authorities learned he had been struck by a vehicle. What would you do if your dog were in this situation? Share your thoughts in the comments.
By Sarah Mitchell — 8 years as a local-news reporter covering animal welfare, shelters, neighborhood disputes, and public-safety pet stories.
