Found a lost pet? Here's how to get it home.
Somewhere nearby, someone is searching. A found-pet alert on Pawdost reaches pet parents around the location within minutes — and most reunions happen because the person who found the animal acted, not because the owner searched harder.
First, check for ID
Look for a collar tag with a phone number, and scan any QR tag with your phone camera — a Pawdost tag opens the pet's profile with a contact button, so you can reach the owner without either of you sharing a number publicly. If there is no visible tag, most vets will scan for a microchip free of charge; it takes seconds.
Keep it nearby if you safely can
Lost pets are usually found close to home, so keeping the animal in the same area — rather than driving it across the city — makes a reunion far more likely. Offer water, and food only if you are sure it is safe. Do not chase a frightened animal: sit down, stay low and let it approach you.
If the pet is injured, distressed or acting aggressively, call a nearby vet or a local rescue instead of handling it yourself. That is the right call, not a failure to help.
Post the sighting
Take a clear photo in good light, note the exact spot and time, and post it. The alert goes to pet parents near that location immediately. Include anything distinctive — collar colour, markings, a limp — but let the owner describe the pet back to you before you hand it over.
Frequently asked questions
I found a dog — should I take it home?
Only if it is safe to do so and the animal is willing. Many lost pets are found within a few streets of home, so keeping it in the same area often speeds up the reunion. If the animal is injured, frightened or aggressive, call a nearby vet or rescue rather than handling it yourself.
How do I find the owner of a pet I found?
Check for a collar tag, a QR tag you can scan with your phone camera, or ask a nearby vet to scan for a microchip — most clinics will do this free. Then post a found-pet alert on Pawdost with a clear photo and the location, and pet parents nearby are notified straight away.
Is reporting a found pet free?
Yes, completely. Posting a found-pet sighting takes under a minute and there is no fee or premium tier for safety features.
Should I post the pet's photo publicly?
Yes — a clear photo and the area where you found it are what get a pet home. Avoid sharing the exact house address publicly, and let the owner identify distinguishing marks before handing the animal over.
What if nobody claims the pet?
Contact local rescues and shelters, who can advise on fostering or rehoming responsibly. Pawdost's adoption listings are free to use if the animal ends up needing a new home.
Pets on Pawdost
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