Lost and found

If you've found a pet on their own, we'll help you work through the next steps. What you need to do depends on whether you've found a dog or a cat.

If you've found a dog:

• Check whether the dog is wearing a collar or ID tag. If they are, try contacting the keeper using the details provided.
• If there is no ID tag, you must contact your local authority dog warden immediately and arrange for them to collect the dog.
• Rescue centres are unable to accept stray dogs directly from members of the public.

What the law requires:

You are legally required to contact your local authority and tell them that you have found a stray dog.

This means the dog can be properly scanned for a microchip and gives their keeper the best possible chance of being reunited with them.

If you've found a cat:

• Ask nearby neighbours whether anyone is missing a cat. Cats can sometimes appear lost while still being close to home.
• Contact your local Cats Protection branch or the RSPCA to report the cat and ask what support is available.
• If the cat appears injured, contact a vet for advice. You may be asked to take them to the nearest veterinary practice.

If your pet is missing, we recommend you take the following steps:

• Check with your neighbours and ask them to look in sheds, garages and other enclosed spaces where your pet may have become trapped.
• Pay particular attention to familiar hiding places close to home.
• If your dog went missing during a walk, retrace the route you would normally take.
• Log in to your identi account or call 0330 912 8077 to report your pet as missing.
• Let us know when your pet is home so we can make sure their record is accurate and up to date.

We've helped reunite thousands of missing pets with the people who love them. We're here to support you through the next steps.