Found a stray
Help, I found a stray!
Thank you for caring for our community critters! Don't stress, we've got you covered. Let's team up and reunite them with their family.
I found a sick or injured pet.
If you are able to transport the animal, you can bring them to Buncombe County Animal Shelter. If the shelter is closed or you are unable to transport them, contact Animal Services for assistance.
Asheville Animal Services: (828) 252-1110
Buncombe County Animal Services: (828) 250-6670
I found a healthy, friendly dog or cat.
Check for tags or a microchip
Help them find their family
Call the shelter
Call the Buncombe County Animal Shelter at 828-250-6430 to see if this animal has been reported missing. Sometimes their family is already looking for them and we can help you get them home as quick as possible!
I found an ear-tipped cat.
I found an unfriendly dog.
If you have found an unfriendly or scared dog, please contact Animal Services for assistance. You can reach Asheville Animal Services at (828) 252-1110, or Buncombe County Animal Services at (828) 250-6670.
I found a kitten or litter.
Don’t panic! It’s rare for cats to abandon their kittens. Mother cats are working moms who need to hunt for food regularly to provide for their babies. Before touching the kittens, read our found kitten guide to learn when you should intervene.
I found a healthy domestic animal.
Please call the Buncombe County Animal Shelter at 828-250-6430 before moving or transporting the animal if it is in a safe location. If the animal is not in a safe location, please contact Animal Services for assistance. You can reach Asheville Animal Services at (828) 252-1110, or Buncombe County Animal Services at (828) 250-6670.
I found wildlife.
Generally, if you find a wild animal, the best thing to do is leave it alone or call a wildlife rehabilitation center. A rehabilitator can help you determine if a wild animal needs humane intervention and will give you information on what to do next.
Microchip Locations
Find a microchip scanner location near you and take the found pet for a free scan – it’s their best chance to get home quickly!
- Search online – Search Nextdoor, Pawboost, Petco Love Lost, social media, and local shelters for lost pet reports. Can't find anything? Create your own found pet posting.
- Create a flyer – Print and hang them up at local stores, veterinary clinics, and offices near the area that the pet was found.
- Talk to neighbors – Most pets are lost within a mile of their home. Ask neighbors if they recognize the lost pet or if they have other information that could help.
Help them reunite
If you are able to keep the lost pet in your home, here are some tips on how you can help them get back to the people they love. Spreading the word can significantly increase the chances of a lost pet getting home safely.
Please fill out our found pet report below if you decide to care for the animal in your home.
Please note that a third-party reunification service may share your information, and we are not responsible for the release of any information that you have entered.