Lost or Found a Pet?

Act quickly. Taking the right steps right away gives you the best chance of a safe reunion.

Lost Your Pet?

The most important thing you can do is take action immediately. Below are the steps we recommend.

1. Contact Berkeley Animal Care Services

Call (510) 981 - 6600 to see if your pet has been found.

  • Continue calling every two to three days.

  • If your pet is not at the shelter, ask to complete a lost report.

  • If you later find your pet, notify the shelter so they can update their records.

2. Check Other Nearby Shelters

File lost reports with:

3. Post Online

Create a “Lost” post with a photo and detailed description on:

Include color, size, breed, and any distinguishing features.

4. Create & Distribute Flyers

Post clear flyers in your neighborhood with:

  • A recent photo

  • Accurate description

  • Your contact information

Notify neighbors directly whenever possible.

You can create flyers through:

5. Check Microchip Registration

If your pet is microchipped, report them missing to the microchip company immediately.

6. Search Strategically

For cats:

  • Check crawl spaces, garages, sheds, and storage areas.

  • Call for your cat during quiet times of day when they are more likely to respond.

  • Cats are often trapped in places where they’ve gone to hide.

For un-neutered pets:

  • Be prepared to expand your search area, as they may roam farther.

Found a Stray?

If you find a lost pet in Berkeley, Piedmont, Emeryville, or Albany:

1. Contact Berkeley Animal Care Services

Call (510) 981 - 6600 right away to give the pet the best chance of reuniting with their owner.

  • If the shelter is open, you may bring the animal in or request Animal Control assistance.

  • If closed, leave a message and call again as soon as they reopen.

2. Post Online

Post on Nextdoor with:

  • A clear description

  • A photo, if possible

Ask anyone claiming the pet to provide identifying details to confirm ownership. Update your post once the pet is reunited.

3. Scan for a Microchip

Take the animal to a local veterinarian or shelter to check for a microchip.

4. Report Welfare Concerns

If you are concerned about possible abuse or neglect based on the pet’s condition, inform the shelter.

If the animal is reclaimed and you have welfare concerns, Animal Control is the appropriate authority to address them.