29 a feature lost and found mobile

What to do if you have lost or found an animal.

I’ve found a pet

If you’ve found a cat, dog or any other companion animal who you believe is a stray, check whether she is wearing a collar and tag. If she is, use the contact details on the tag to contact the owner.

If you cannot contact the owner, then you should arrange for the animal to be taken to a council pound, an approved animal welfare organisation or an approved premise e.g., a veterinary practice. The shelter or premise can scan the pet for a microchip and try to contact her owner.

While councils are not obliged to collect stray animals, many offer this as a complimentary service for their ratepayers.

I’ve found a pet – what should I do?

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Check for a collar or tag

Contact the owner using the contact details on the tag.

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Scan the microchip

Take the animal to a council pound, shelter or veterinary clinic to have him scanned for a microchip.

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Make posters

Put up found posters in your area. Include a clear photograph and a note letting the owner know the council pound, shelter or veterinary clinic where you have left the animal.

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Use social media

Use your network, ask for help, and post on all the lost and found pages you can find.