Lost or found a pet in San Francisco
What to do if your pet is missing
Now
Add a photo and where your pet was last seen. We’ll show you pets posted nearby that could be yours. Each one is a lead to check, not proof.
Start with a photoFree and private. No account needed.Next
What local animal services ask:
- File a lost report using Animal Care & Control’s official instructions.
- Check online listings and visit promptly to identify a possible lead.
- Contact the shelter about reclaim arrangements and the proof you need.
FindLostPets and the shelter keep separate reports. It helps to file one with the shelter too.
How long shelters hold a pet
California law requires shelters to hold stray dogs and cats for at least four business days, not counting the day they arrive; many must hold six. Contact the shelter quickly; a specific pet's status can differ.
This is a general rule, not a date for your pet. Go in person as early as you can, and ask the shelter how long it will keep a pet that could be yours.
More details about hold times
Exceptions apply, such as newborns and suffering animals.
Official sources:California dog law (opens in a new tab)California cat law (opens in a new tab)Care exceptions (opens in a new tab)Feral-cat exception (opens in a new tab)
Keep checking
- Look at the shelter’s listings again, and go in person when you can.
- Open your search here again to see what has been posted since.
- Write down who you called and any possible sightings, then make a flyer and share it.
What to do if you found a pet
Now
Answer three quick questions and see if someone nearby is missing them.
Look for their ownerPrivate until you choose to share. No account needed.Next
What local animal services ask:
- Use Animal Care & Control’s official found-pet instructions.
- Submit a found report or contact the shelter about a pet found in San Francisco.
- Ask about safe care and intake for a sick, injured or endangered animal.
FindLostPets and the shelter keep separate reports. It helps to file one with the shelter too.
How long shelters hold a pet
California law requires shelters to hold stray dogs and cats for at least four business days, not counting the day they arrive; many must hold six. Contact the shelter quickly; a specific pet's status can differ.
More details about hold times
Exceptions apply, such as newborns and suffering animals.
Official sources:California dog law (opens in a new tab)California cat law (opens in a new tab)Care exceptions (opens in a new tab)Feral-cat exception (opens in a new tab)
Pets posted near San Francisco
Pet Watch
Be the neighbor who helps a pet get home
Sign up to receive email alerts for lost pets in your area.
Free · Unsubscribe anytime
How Pet Watch worksAbout these instructions
These instructions are for San Francisco only. Ask Animal Care & Control about safe next steps; healthy outdoor cats have a different pathway.
- Local steps checked against the official pages on .
- Hold rule checked .
