You’ve found a stray dog. Now what?

If you have found a stray pet, call the local police to report the animal found. The police may instruct you to wait for an animal control officer to pick up the pet or work with you to deliver the stray pet to the nearest government-funded animal shelter.

Michigan has about 160 city and county animal shelters, SPCAs, rescue groups, and humane societies. Not all of them can accept stray dogs and cats.

In Michigan, you must take any stray pet you have found to the nearest city or county animal shelter. Only city and county animal shelters can accept stray pets.

SPCAs, rescue groups, and humane societies accept pets surrendered by their owners.

Limiting the rescue of stray pets to only public animal shelters makes it easier and more likely that the pet can be reunited with their proper owners.

Public animal shelters will scan the animal for a microchip, feed and house the animal, and are trained to find the pet’s owners.

Do not keep the pet. This can be considered theft. After the pet is reported found and has been on stray hold for a certain number of days without being claimed, you will most likely be able to adopt the animal directly from the animal shelter.

It’s important to note that claiming ownership of a stray dog without following the proper legal and ethical procedures may have legal implications. Working with local authorities, such as animal control or shelters, is always recommended to ensure the best outcome for the stray dog and comply with applicable laws or regulations.

To understand the specific laws and regulations regarding found stray dogs in your local area, it is advisable to contact your local animal control agency, animal shelter, or city/county government for guidance. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on how to proceed with a stray dog you have found.