Lost Pit Bull Found Roaming Maple Street Ends Up at Utica Police Department Awaiting Owner

May 25, 2026

UTICA, N.Y. — A black-and-white pit bull mix picked up on Maple Street in Utica is now waiting at the Utica Police Department as officers try to track down the dog’s owner before it’s transferred to a shelter.

The dog was found Tuesday in the 1200 block of Maple Street, according to the City of Utica Police Department, which shared photos of the animal on social media while asking the public for help identifying its owner.

Police described the dog as a black-and-white pit bull mix and urged anyone with information to contact the department at 315-223-3461.

The post quickly drew attention online, with commenters joking that the dog had “landed in jail” and needed its owners to “bail him out.”

Police Seeking Owner Before Shelter Transfer

The Utica Police Department has not said how long the dog will remain in custody before being transferred to an animal shelter or rescue organization.

Lost and stray dogs recovered by police are often held temporarily while officers and local animal control agencies attempt to locate owners through public alerts and community outreach.

The dog appeared alert and unharmed in photos released by the department, standing behind kennel bars with food and water bowls nearby.


Key Points

• Utica police found a black-and-white pit bull mix on Maple Street
• Officers are asking the public to help identify the dog’s owner
• Anyone with information can contact the Utica Police Department at 315-223-3461


Social Media Post Draws Community Attention

The department’s Facebook post generated dozens of reactions shortly after it was published, with residents sharing the alert in hopes of reconnecting the dog with its family.