Whether you have lost your family member or found a missing four-legged friend, OCAS is here to help guide you. Recent research shows the majority of missing pets are found within one mile of their home.
For those that have found a pet, the first thought may be to immediately bring the him or her to the shelter. OCAS is asking you to wait, to attempt to find the owner through the below resources. If the owner cannot be found, then the pet can be brought to the shelter during open hours. Please be advised, local law requires anyone who has found a pet to report that animal as found within two calendar days. Reports should be made utilizing both resources below.
For those that have lost a pet, OCAS wants to do everything possible to help you reunite with your loved one. If your pet is microchipped, now is the time to ensure the microchip is enrolled with a database and your correct information is recorded. Please keep a constant eye on the pets in the shelter’s care and utilize both the below resources for sharing your pet’s information.
Utilize both lost and found pet resources below.
Click here to access the Lost & Found Pet Forum.
The Lost & Found Pet Forum is a place for people to connect if they have lost or found a pet. The Forum features a map option for improved opportunities to match lost and found pets.
The Forum does not require an account for utilization, but posters will need to provide either a phone number or email address, which will be viewable by other users. Animal Services recommends uploading a recent photo of your pet for best chances of reunification.
The Forum also allows individuals who have found a pet and brought that animal to the shelter to make a posting. Animal Services encourages finders to take this opportunity to share the original location where the pet was found, hopefully increasing the chances of the pet being identified by their family.
New postings to the Forum are reviewed by shelter staff and will be viewable to the public within 48 hours of submission. Users with inquiries or experiencing any technical difficulties are asked to email AnimalServices@ocfl.net for assistance.
Note: This is an internet tool to aid in locating a missing pet and should not be treated as a substitute for looking for your pet via the OCAS website and in person.
Click here to access the Petco Love Lost database.
“Nearly 10 million pets go missing each year – we help them return home.
Established in 1999, Petco Love formalizes Petco’s longstanding commitment to animal welfare. We simplify the search for lost and found pets by offering a free central location to report, search, and share.
Our database includes pets reported by individuals as well as thousands of shelter partners across the country. By uploading a photo of your lost or found pet and reporting it in our system, you make that pet visible to pet parents searching for their pet – making happy pet reunions just a few clicks away.” – Petco Love Lost
Note: This is an internet tool to aid in locating a missing pet and should not be treated as a substitute for looking for your pet via the OCAS website and in person.
Additionally, OCAS recommends those who have lost or found a pet to:
- Make a report by calling 3-1-1, this is our recommended option for those without reliable internet access or social media.
- Post on social media, including sites like NextDoor. Facebook has multiple lost/found pet groups in the Central Florida area.
- Post flyers in the relevant area.
- Speak with neighbors for additional information.
If you believe your pet is at Orange County Animal Services, visit the shelter immediately. Please review information on the reclaim process here.