Short answer: check for a tag, get the animal scanned for a microchip at any vet or shelter (it’s free), report it to the county animal services where you found it, and post a found report with a clear photo on Petco Love Lost, Nextdoor and Find a Paw. Before handing the pet over, ask the person claiming it to prove it’s theirs.

1. Make sure the animal is safe

Approach slowly and let a scared animal come to you. If it’s injured, call animal control or an emergency vet. Keep a found pet away from your own pets until you know it’s healthy.

2. Look for ID and scan for a chip

Check the collar for a tag or a phone number written on it. Then take the animal to any vet clinic or shelter to scan for a microchip. Most will scan for free. If there is a chip, the registry can contact the owner.

3. Report it where you found it

Report the animal to animal services for the county where you found it. Owners search there first. In metro Atlanta, our shelter directory lists every county’s phone number and reporting method. Some counties have online found-animal forms.

4. Post it everywhere

  • Report a found pet on Find a Paw (free).
  • Petco Love Lost matches found-pet photos against lost reports.
  • Nextdoor and local lost-pet Facebook groups for the area where you found it.
  • A few flyers near where you found the animal. People search where they lost their pet.

In your post, leave out one identifying detail, such as a marking or the color of the collar. You’ll use it to check that the person contacting you is the real owner.

5. Check before you hand it over

Ask the person to describe the detail you left out, show photos of the pet with them, or show vet records. Meet in a public place or at the shelter. Be cautious of anyone who is vague, pushy, or wants you to ship the animal. See lost pet scams.

Can I keep a pet I found?

Not right away. Owners need time and a fair chance to find their pet, and many places have rules about reporting found animals. Report it, post it, and talk to your county shelter about what to do if no owner comes forward.