What to do if you have found an animal.

Reuniting lost pets with their owners is one of our top priorities. Any found animals may be turned into our facility. If the animal was found within the city limits of Escondido or San Marcos we can send a Humane Officer to pick up the animal. If the animal was found outside of our jurisdiction we will transfer the animal to the appropriate facility.

People often pose the question "Do I have to turn the animal in to the shelter?" The answer is no. However, since it is our responsibility to reunite lost pets with their owner, we do ask that you bring the animal into our shelter, allow us to scan for a microchip ID, and complete a found animal record. We also ask that you post notices in your neighborhood, place an ad in the local newspaper and report the animal as a public found animal on Pet Harbor (link at bottom of the page). When entering the location where the animal was found please list a cross street or known landmark.

Please keep in mind that the animal you found may be an important member of someone's family. If you don't notify the public that you have found this pet they won't know to look in your back yard.

Post Found Animal to Pet Harbor: Dog - Cat - Other