Lost & Found

Helping reunite lost pets with their families across Southeast Missouri.

Lost or Found a Pet? Here's What to Do

We know how stressful it is to lose a pet—or to find one wandering alone. Whether you’re in Cape Girardeau, Jackson, or nearby, we're here to help guide you through the next steps. Acting quickly gives every pet the best chance at getting home safely.

Report a Lost or Found Pet

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If You’ve Lost a Pet

  • Check with us right away. Call us at 573.334.5837 to report your missing pet.
  • Email or bring a recent photo and a full description including name, breed, color, size, age, collar/tag info, and microchip number if available.
  • Visit the shelter in person to check if your pet is here. Lost pets may not be posted online immediately.
  • File a report on local lost pet pages, community groups, and sites like PawBoost and Petfinder.
  • Post flyers in your neighborhood, notify nearby vet clinics, and speak with neighbors.

If You’ve Found a Pet

  • Make sure the pet is safe and contained before approaching.
  • Check for tags or a collar. If safe, bring the pet to us or a nearby vet to scan for a microchip.
  • Call us at 573.334.5837 to report the found pet. You can also send a photo and description via email or our contact page.
  • Post the pet on local Facebook groups, community boards, and lost/found pet websites.
  • If you’re able, consider temporarily fostering the pet while searching for the owner. We can guide you on how to do this safely.

Important Reminders

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Stray hold times may apply based on local ordinances.

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Not all pets arrive at the shelter right away—keep checking regularly.

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The sooner you act, the better the chances of a reunion.

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Proof of ownership may be required to reclaim a pet (such as photos, vet records, or microchip registration).

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Every Lost Pet Deserves a Way Home

When a pet goes missing, it’s more than just a moment of panic—it’s a family member gone. That’s why we take lost and found reports seriously and act quickly to help. Whether it’s reuniting a dog with their owner after days on the street or helping a kind stranger care for a found kitten, we’re here to support pets and people through stressful situations.



We provide safe shelter, scan for microchips, help with stray holds, and share found pet info with local networks. For owners, we offer guidance and updates. For finders, we offer a clear next step. No matter the situation, our goal is simple: reunite animals with the families who miss them.

A black and white dog is standing in the grass next to a chain link fence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lost & Found Pets

Need Help Now?

Call us at 573.334.5837 or stop by during business hours. We’ll do everything we can to help you reunite with your pet—or find a safe next step for a found animal.

  • What should I do if I’ve lost my pet?

    Fill out a lost report on our website. Include a recent photo and detailed description.  If possible you can visit the shelter in person.  Also post in all the local Facebook groups, notify your vet, and check with neighbors.

  • How long do you hold found pets?

    We follow stray hold guidelines as required by Missouri state ordinances.  We hold stray pets for 5 days, and 10 days if known owner to give owners time to reclaim them. After that period, pets may be evaluated for adoption.

  • Do I need to bring anything to claim my pet?

    Yes. We’ll ask for proof of ownership, which may include recent photos, vet records, microchip registration, or other identifying details that help us confirm the pet belongs to you. Personal identification is also required such as a drivers license, ID card, or passport.

  • What if I find a stray pet outside of your business hours?

    If the animal is safe and you’re able to keep it overnight, call us to schedule a time to bring it during our normal business hours. If the pet appears injured or in distress, contact local animal control or an emergency vet for guidance.

  • Can I keep a found pet?

    If you’re interested in keeping a found pet, contact us first. We’ll take a found report and walk you through the legal steps. We still need to hold the animal for a set period in case an owner comes forward.

  • Do you post found pets online?

    We share the found animals on SEMO LOST PETS on Facebook not on our page or website.

  • I found a pet with a tag—should I call the number on it?

    Yes, that’s the fastest way to reunite a pet with its family. If there's no answer or the number is outdated, bring the pet to us or a nearby vet to check for a microchip.

  • Can I report a lost or found pet online?

    Yes. If it’s after hours or you’re unable to call, use our Contact Page to send a message with a photo and detailed information. We’ll follow up as soon as we can.