TIPS: I'VE FOUND A PET
1. Have the pet scanned for a microchip at a vet clinic or at a local shelter. This is a free service.
***Please be advised....if you find an animal in Gatineau and bring the animal to the SPCA to be scanned for a microchip, the animal becomes the property of the SPCA.
2. File a found pet report with your local animal control officer and animal shelter.
For Ottawa, you can file a report online with the Ottawa Humane Society.
**While not required, OHS recommend booking an appointment before bringing an animal to them. You can contact the intake department at 613-725-3166 ext. 223 or email [email protected].
To create a found report with the city of Ottawa
If the animal is in distress, call 3-1-1 immediately.
For surrounding areas, please see our tab "Important Contact Numbers" for other local shelters and animal control officers.
3. Post on our Facebook page, Ottawa and Valley Lost Pet Network. This is a free service.
4. Post an ad on Kijiji, and other buy and sell sites. Make use of social media like Facebook, X and Reddit.
5. Put a sign on your lawn indicating you have found a pet. Often people who lose animals will drive around trying to find them.
6. Put up posters in your neighborhood and post a giant FOUND PET poster near the exact spot where you found the pet and a couple more at major intersections in that area.
7. Please exercise caution when reunifying a found pet with its owner.
Ensure the individual claiming the animal is the legitimate owner. Unfortunately, there are people who monitor lost-and-found pet posts with harmful intentions.
Request appropriate proof of ownership, such as photographs, veterinary records, or other documentation. For dogs, you may also ask for the dog’s name and observe whether the animal responds.
When arranging to meet someone—either to pick up a lost pet or to return one—use the same precautions you would when meeting any stranger. Choose a safe, public location whenever possible.
If you do not feel comfortable transferring a found animal to someone, please contact your local municipality or animal services for assistance.