Lost and Found Pets Listing

Frequently Asked Questions About Lost and Found Pets in the US

1. How can I find a lost pet?

Start by canvassing the neighbourhood – 70 % of lost dogs are found within a 1‑mile radius. Post a free listing on Rescota and check local shelters daily. Social media groups such as Facebook Lost & Found Pets, Nextdoor and Petco Love Lost are powerful tools. Microchipped pets are far more likely to be reunited: dogs with microchips were returned 52.2 % of the time versus 21.9 % for un‑microchipped dogs, and microchipped cats were reclaimed 38.5 % of the time versus 1.8 % for cats without chips

2. What should I do if I find a lost pet in the US?

Walk the animal around the area and talk to neighbours; most lost pets are found less than a mile from home. Check for ID tags and take the pet to a vet or shelter to scan for a microchip (many veterinary clinics and pet‑supply stores do this free). Post a “found pet” listing on Rescota and notify local shelters.

3. Where can I report a lost pet in the US?

Create a listing on Rescota, which connects owners with local communities. Report the loss to nearby animal shelters and animal control, inform your microchip company, and post on platforms such as Petco Love Lost and Facebook.

4. How do I increase my chances of finding a missing pet in the US?

Act quickly. Most pets are found during the first week, with many returning within 24–48 hours.

Post on Rescota, print flyers, use Rescota’s free neighbourhood email alert and share on social media. Keep your microchip registration updated – microchips make dogs more than twice as likely to be reunited with their families.

5. Are there lost pet recovery services in the US?

Yes. Rescota offers free tools (listings, flyers, email alerts) and optional premium campaigns. Professional services such as the Missing Animal Response Network and Pet Search & Rescue specialize in tracking and recovering lost animals. Fees vary, but many organizations offer payment plans.

6. What are the most common places lost pets are found in the US?

Lost pets often stay within a mile of home. They may be found in parks, wooded areas and residential neighbourhoods, along busy streets, in local animal shelters or with kind neighbours.

7. How can I prevent my pet from getting lost in the US?

Secure your home and yard; fences should extend to the ground and be tall enough to deter jumping. Train recall commands. Ensure your pet wears an ID tag and has an up‑to‑date microchip; microchipped pets are much more likely to be returned.

8. What are the best lost and found pet websites in the US?

In addition to Rescota, popular platforms include Petco Love Lost, PawBoost, 24Petconnect, and community networks on Facebook and Nextdoor.

9. How long do lost pets typically take to return home in the US?

Statistics suggest that 93 % of lost dogs are eventually found and many within the first 48 hours, while 74 % of lost cats are recovered. Pets often return home within a week, so prompt action is critical.

10. Can I adopt a found pet if the owner isn’t located?

Shelters generally have a legally mandated holding period — typically 3–10 days — during which owners can reclaim their pet. After this period, the animal may be made available for adoption. Check your local shelter’s policy and allow them to handle the adoption process.