Lost & Found
When Your Pet Goes Missing
Despite our best efforts, sometimes our pets become separated from us. By acting quickly and utilizing the right resources, you can increase the chances of being reunited with your furry friend. Reporting the loss immediately, spreading the word in your community, and checking local shelters and online databases are essential steps to take.
Jump to a section using the links below.
Reporting a Lost or Found Pet
If you’ve lost or found a pet, please use our Report a Lost & Found Pet form to report the details. Providing accurate and thorough information helps us reunite lost pets with their families.
As a community service, we offer a Lost & Found Report in a Google Spreadsheet below, containing details to assist in reconnecting lost pets with their owners.
Lost & Found Report
This sheet updates automatically when individuals fill out our “Report a Lost & Found Pet” form. If you’re looking for Found Pets, click on the second tab at the bottom of the spreadsheet.
7 Tips and Resources for Finding Your Lost Pet
Losing a pet can be a heartbreaking experience, but taking prompt and effective action can greatly improve the chances of a happy reunion. Here are some essential tips to help you find your lost pet.
1) Search Nearby Areas
Start by searching your home and surrounding areas thoroughly. Check places where your pet might hide, such as under furniture, in closets, or in the yard. Expand your search to neighboring streets and parks, calling your pet’s name and bringing their favorite treats or toys to attract them.
2) Contact Nelson County SPCA and Nelson County Animal Control
Submit our Lost and Found Pet Form and also call Nelson County Animal Control at 434-263-7047.
3) Contact other local shelters and Animal Control Services
- Humane Society of Amherst
- Animal Control Amherst County
- Animal Control Buckingham County
- Charlottesville – Albemarle SPCA
4) Check Online Lost and Found Databases
Register your lost pet with online databases. We recommend first registering with Petco Love Lost, which uses image recognition to search a national database. Other sites like Petfinder, PawBoost, and LostMyDoggie can help spread the word. Regularly check these sites for any updates or matches.
5) Utilize Social Media
Post about your lost pet on social media platforms, including local community groups and lost pet pages. Include a recent photo, description, and your contact details. Ask friends and family to share your post to increase its reach.
6) Notify Your Community
Inform your neighbors about your lost pet. Create and distribute flyers with a clear photo of your pet, their name, description, and your contact information. Post them in prominent places like community centers, vet clinics, and local businesses.
7) Keep a positive attitude and don’t lose hope
Many pets are found days or even weeks after they go missing. By following these tips and staying proactive, you can increase the chances of reuniting with your beloved pet. Remember, persistence and community involvement are the key.
Report a Lost or Found Pet
What to Do If You Find a Stray Animal
If the pet is not wearing an ID tag, the best course of action is to call Nelson County Animal Control or local veterinarian so they can scan the animal for a microchip. Submit our Lost and Found Pet form. Finally, check out the Lost/Found Pets of Nelson County VA Facebook group.
If you’re able to, keep the dog safe and comfortable while you search for the owner. Ensure they have food, water, and a secure place to stay. If you are unsure about how to do this, take a look at How to help a stray pet. It’s a great resource for caring for a stray..
If the pet you find has a collar, reach out to the owner directly if you can. Typically, they won’t be too far away — and you can be their hero for a day.