During the first half of Japan's Golden Week holidays, a Shiba Inu decided to take a joyride on the Third Keihin Expressway in Kanagawa Prefecture, sparking a thrilling yet heartwarming "dog chase." The incident unfolded around 11:00 AM on April 29, near the Tamagawa toll booth in Kawasaki City's Takatsu Ward, close to the Tamagawa River. Local police received a 110 call reporting a dog running loose on the main highway, prompting a rapid response from the highway patrol. 
Witnesses reported that while the Shiba Inu wore a collar, it had no leash or ID tag, suggesting it was a lost pet with an unknown owner. The dog darted back and forth across the expressway, not only startling oncoming traffic but also prompting numerous drivers to spontaneously pull over and lend a hand, turning the highway into an impromptu "dog-catching operation."
Shunsuke Omi, an office worker on his way to a band performance in Shizuoka, witnessed the whole spectacle. "The electronic sign flashed 'Caution: Animal Intrusion,' and I expected some wild creature," he recounted. "But then I saw a Shiba Inu just strolling around – it was honestly too adorable!" 
Bystanders who helped with the rescue noted the dog was covered in leaves, suggesting it might have wandered onto the highway from the nearby riverbank. Police reported the Shiba Inu was quite agitated, even nipping at an officer who tried to calm it. Ultimately, after about 20 minutes and a combined effort from five or six people, the dog was successfully "apprehended." A helmet-clad patrol officer scooped it up, and it was taken to the Tsuzuki Police Station for safekeeping.
While some commuters faced delays, the atmosphere at the scene was surprisingly good-natured and filled with laughter. One person commented, "Everyone felt it was just one of those things you can't help, and it was actually a little heartwarming."
Kanagawa police stated they are actively searching for the Shiba Inu's owner. They also reminded pet owners to always use leashes and ID tags when out with their pets to prevent similar incidents.