Who to Contact if you Find a Stray Dog or Cat

Finding a stray cat or dog can be an unexpected situation, but knowing what to do can help keep the animal safe and increase the chances of getting it back home. A stray pet may be lost, frightened, injured, or simply separated from its owner.

1. Contact Your Local Animal Shelter or Animal Control

The first organization to contact is usually your local animal shelter or animal control agency. They can provide guidance, check for a lost-pet report, and help determine what to do with the animal.

If the animal is injured, aggressive, or in immediate danger, contact animal control or emergency animal services rather than trying to handle it yourself.

2. Check for Identification

If it is safe to approach the animal, look for a collar and identification tag. The tag may contain the owner's phone number or other contact information.

You can also take the animal to a local veterinarian, animal shelter, or other organization that has a microchip scanner. A microchip can help identify the owner even when the pet does not have a collar.

3. Contact Local Veterinary Clinics

Veterinary clinics may know about lost pets in the community or can scan the animal for a microchip. If the animal appears sick or injured, a veterinarian can also provide information about getting appropriate medical care.

4. Report the Found Pet Online

Many communities have lost-and-found pet websites and social media groups. You can post a clear description of the animal, where you found it, and when you found it. Avoid sharing every identifying detail so that someone claiming the pet can provide information that helps verify ownership.

5. Be Careful When Approaching Stray Animals

Even a friendly-looking animal may be scared or defensive. Approach slowly and avoid cornering it. Keep children and other pets away until you know the animal is safe.

If the animal is acting aggressively, appears seriously injured, or is near traffic, do not put yourself in danger. Contact animal control or emergency services for assistance.

Remember

Finding a stray pet does not necessarily mean it has been abandoned. It may be a beloved family pet whose owner is actively looking for it. Contacting your local animal shelter or animal control agency, checking for identification, and reporting the found animal can help reunite the pet with its family.

When in doubt, prioritize your safety and the animal's safety and contact a local animal-care professional for guidance.