My pet was found by an animal shelter — what happens now | How do I reclaim my pet from animal control?
My pet was found by an animal shelter or animal control — what happens now?
PetLink's role: Once we are notified your pet has been located, we will file a Found Pet Report and contact you by email, text, and phone to assist with the reunification process.
What the shelter will do
- Scan your pet for a microchip and attempt to contact you using the registered information — this is why keeping your PetLink account up to date is critical.
- Hold your pet for a legally required period before any other action can be taken. Hold periods vary by state and local law, but most require between 3 and 5 days. Contact your local shelter to confirm their specific hold period.
- After the hold period, if you have not reclaimed your pet, the shelter may proceed with adoption, rescue transfer, or other disposition.
What you need to do
- Contact the shelter immediately — call directly, do not rely on their website alone.
- Visit in person if possible — photos online may not accurately represent your pet.
- Bring proof of ownership — photos of your pet, veterinary records, or adoption papers.
- Be prepared to pay fees — impound fees, boarding fees, and vaccination fees are standard practice and vary by location.
Act quickly
The hold period clock starts from the day your pet arrives at the shelter. If the hold period expires before you reclaim your pet, the shelter gains full legal authority over what happens next. Contact them as soon as possible.
If anything is unclear, ask here and I'll help you through it. If you would prefer to speak with someone directly, you can reach PetLink at 1-877-PETLINK (738-5465).