I tried finding the UT/federal laws/protocols, but my Google Fu keeps getting interrupted by the munchkins.
My big problem with this story, other than the poor dog, is:
WHY DID NOBODY SEARCH THE HOUSE FIRST?
When I'm frantic, I can't find stuff easily. Send a calm person/cop to search the house while others start searching public areas nearby. In this case, they would've found the kid asleep in the house.
If that step isn't on the list, it should be added.
That and yes, you don't ever own a cat. They adopt you - or at least your house and hospitality.