Missing Pup 'Ruby' Found In O.C., Returned To RivCo Family

PERRIS, CA — A Yorkshire terrier, named "Ruby," that went missing Aug. 10, was reunited with its owners in Perris this week after being located at a woman's residence in Santa Ana, according to authorities.

The tiny dog, imported from Russia and microchipped, held a special spot in the family as their special-needs daughter was particularly close to the pup, the Riverside County Sheriff's Deparment said.

Ruby' disappeared on the morning of Aug. 10 from the 1800 block of Caltha Way, near Avishan Drive, according to deputies.

The Perris residents contacted a deputy assigned to the Perris Station Special Enforcement Team on Aug. 20 hoping for assistance in finding Ruby and provided information, including the dog's microchip number.

Sgt. Aaron Avila said deputies initiated an investigation that quickly netted results, confirming that the Yorkie had been in the possession of two different individuals before finally being sold to a Santa Ana woman.

"The female ... was contacted and given the opportunity to cooperate with the investigation, however, she refused," Avila said.

Because Ruby was microchipped, she could be readily identified with one scan, the sergeant said.

On Wednesday, with the help of a Santa Ana animal control officer, Riverside County sheriff's deputies visited the Santa Ana location, where they recovered Ruby, Avila said, adding that the resident was not present.

The terrier was reunited with her rightful owner a few hours later. Avila said the investigation behind Ruby's disappearance is ongoing.

No one has been arrested.

Anyone with additional information on the case can contact Deputy P. Salazar from the Perris Station by calling 951-210-1000, or can submit a tip using the Sheriff's CrimeTips online form.

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--City News Service contributed to this post