Report a Found Pet

If you have found a lost pet that is not wearing any identification, the first thing to do is take the found pet to a veterinarian or rescue to have it scanned for a microchip.  With any luck, the pet will be microchipped and the scan will reveal the microchip number. The found pet’s microchip number will make finding the owners immensely easier. 

How to Report a Found Pet

Once you’ve obtained the pet’s microchip number, it’s time to file a report for the pet you found. First, enter the microchip number, if the pet has been registered in PetLink’s database you can proceed with filing a found pet report. PetLink will contact the pet’s owner immediately once the found pet report has been filed. 

PetLink’s Report a Found Pet tool will also search the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)’s database. The AAHA database does not contain owner or pet information but can advise which registry a registered microchip is with if it is not registered in the PetLink database. You can then use this information to contact the correct microchip registry.  

What to Do with the Pet You Have Found

If you have found a lost pet and have already reported it, PetLink will handle communications with the owner right away. If PetLink finds a match, the pet can usually stay with the veterinarian’s office or animal professional that scanned the microchip until the owner arrives to retrieve it.  If this is not an option and you can hold onto the pet until the owner contacts either you or us, keep the pet contained in a safe space away from all other animals until they are reunited with their owner.     

Found Pet FAQs

Should I approach the pet if it seems scared or aggressive?

No matter what, always approach a strange pet with caution. Use a leash or pet carrier to safely restrain the found pet.  If the pet will not safely cooperate, contact the local police department or animal control right away to retrieve the pet.

Can I keep the pet if I can’t find the owner?

If you cannot find the pet’s owner, you must turn it over to authorities. They are responsible for keeping the pet while trying to connect with its owner.  If they permit you to keep the lost pet, you can do so as you search for the owner. Refer to your local police department for legal instructions based on where you live.

What if I can’t care for the pet while searching for the owner?

You can always turn the lost pet over to the local authorities or an animal rescue to care for the lost pet while they search for its owner. 

Should I share information about the pet on social media?

Yes, sharing information on the found pet on social media will help spread the word and hopefully find the pet’s owner.

Should I ask for proof of ownership from someone claiming to be the pet’s owner?

Yes, for the pet’s safety, anyone claiming to be the owner should be required to show proof that the pet actually belongs to them before it is returned to their possession.