Advice for when you find a lost pet

Lost Pets

ChipHERO is dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their families. Here are a few ways in which you can help.

How do I help a lost dog?

First check to ensure that the dog is actually lost and not off the lead with the owner nearby.

When approaching a lost dog take care. DO NOT approach a dog that is showing signs of aggression. When approaching an unfamiliar dog, do so calmly, taking your time to ensure everyone's safety.

STEP 1
If the dog is exhibiting aggressive behaviour keep your distance and contact the local dog warden. If you believe the dog is a threat to the community or to road safety call the police for assistance.

STEP 2
If you are able to approach the dog safety then check to see if they are wearing a collar or tag with the owner's contact information. If you find a tag with a QR code you can tap or scan it with your smartphone.

STEP 3
It is a legal requirement that you contact the local authorities and advise them that you have found a stray dog. All local authorities provide a dog warden service. You can also contact a local veterinary practice to see if they are able to take the dog temporarily.

STEP 4
Your local veterinary practice has the ability to scan the dog's microchip number and search the various databases to find the registered keeper's details. It is a legal requirement that all dogs are microchipped and for the microchip details to be kept up to date with the keeper's contact information.

A local microchip implanter will have the ability to scan a chip and determine, which database the microchip his held with. They cannot access the keeper's private information, but they can put you in touch with the microchip company that holds the information.

STEP 5
If the dog remains in you care you can reach out to local rescue centres to report the dog found. There are also lots of social media pages dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their owners. If possible spread the word locally.

Is the dog injured?

An injured or sick dog should be taken to your local vet. Explain that you are not the owner and provide details of where the dog was found.

I've found a cat. What do I do?

Many cats found roaming free have owners and are not missing or lost. We recommend you speak to neighbours and the local community to see if anyone recognises them. If you believe a cat to be lost contact you local cat rescue or the RSPCA for advice.

By law all domesticated cats must be microchipped and their keeper's contact information kept current. The law does not require feral cats and kitten to be microchipped. Your local veterinary practice has the ability to scan the cat's microchip and search the various databases to find the owner's details. It is a legal requirement that all domesticated cats are microchipped and for the microchip details to be kept up to date with the owner's/keeper's contact information.

A local microchip implanter will have the ability to scan a chip and determine, which database the microchip his held with. They cannot access the keeper's private information, but they can put you in touch with the microchip company that holds the information.

Is the cat injured?

An injured or sick cat should be taken to your local vet. Explain that you are not the owner and provide details of where the cat was found.