Lost and Found Pets

Losing or finding an animal is stressful, so it’s important to know what to do next.

• Be mindful that the animal that is lost or found may be frightened and can possibly cause harm.
• Check for an identification tag. If the found animal isn’t wearing one you can bring them into a local veterinary clinic or animal welfare organization to scan for a microchip. Please call ahead of time before doing so.
• Impounds can assist you based on the location where the animal is lost or found. Check out the tab below for a list of impounds by location.
• If you find an adult cat that looks healthy, it’s home may be nearby. Your best option for the cat is to leave it where you find it unless it is sick, injured, or in immediate danger. Check back later to see if the cat has gone back home. It’s important to remember that cats have great instincts and like to go out and explore even if they’re not supposed to.
• Social media is a helpful tool when you need to share lost or found animals. Be sure to include a clear picture, where the animal was found, and who to contact in your posts.

Ruff Start Rescue highly recommends utilizing Lost Dogs Minnesota resources. Especially their found dog checklist and lost dog checklist in your time of need.

The Retrievers provide excellent resources for lost and found animals as well.