Finding Your Lost Pet

If you have lost your pet, here are some tips to help get your pet home safely as soon as possible! findpet.gif

Search Local Shelters:  

  • Visit El Dorado County shelters or check online:
  • Check other area shelters: www.petharbor.com
  • Check shelters every 2-3 days. Some shelters only hold stray animals for a few days.

Complete a Lost Animal Report(PDF, 65KB) and bring or FAX it to El Dorado County Animal Services, 6435 Capitol Avenue, Diamond Springs, FAX: (530) 622-6851, or in South Lake Tahoe at 1120 Shakori Drive, FAX: (530) 577-5318. You can also come to the shelters and complete this form.

Post and Distribute Flyers - Include your pet's photo and description, the date and location where lost, and your address and phone number. Post flyers in the neighborhood. Distribute to local veterinarians, groomers, pet and feed stores, etc. (Once you find your pet, be sure to take down flyers.) 

Place an Ad - Place a "Lost Pet" ad in local newspapers. Also check the "Found Pet" ads. Many newspapers offer free Lost and Found ads.

Talk to Local Veterinarians - People who have found a lost animal will often notify the closest veterinary office. Check your local resource directory for a list of veterinarians in El Dorado County.

Don't Give Up - Many pets are found months after they are lost! Keep looking. Don't forget to ask neighbors and friends to be on the lookout as well.

Download a full tip sheet(PDF, 18KB)