Missing & Found Animals
What to do if you find a lost animal:
Ensure safety first. Approach slowly and calmly. Do not force contact. Your safety matters too.
Check for identification. Look for collar, tags, or ID. If safe, take to a vet or shelter to scan for a microchip.
Secure animal if possible. Place them in a safe and quiet place away from traffic, children, and other pets. Provide food and water.
Document were found. Write down the exact location, date, and time the animal was found.
Post FOUND notices (not full details). Post on local Facebook groups, community pages, and lost pet sites. Tip: Do not share every detail-ask claimants to describe them to verify ownership.
Contact local shelter & animal control. Notify nearby shelters, rescues, and animal control so they can log the animal as found.
Do not assume abandonment right away. Many pets escape accidentally. Even if the animal looks thin and dirty, they may still be loved and missed.
If you can’t keep temporarily reach out to local rescues and shelters for guidance on emergency placement.
If animal is injured or in distress seek immediate veterinary care.
Be patient & compassionate. Lost pets are scared and confused. Calm handling & kindness go long way.