I've Found An Animal

Steps to take if you've found a stray animal

I've Found a Stray Animal

Have you found a stray animal that you're not sure what to do with? Please don't assume it has been abandoned or abused. Often, pets are missing for an extended period of time and may appear neglected or scared. Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that the animal is safely returned to its owner.

  • Check and see if the animal has identification tags.
    • If the animal has a rabies or license tag, we can trace it. Call 402-444-7800, ext. 1, and be sure to provide the license and/or rabies tag number, along with a description of the animal and we'll help you find the owner. 
  • Search our online lost pet pages to see if the animal has been reported missing.
  • Keep the animal at your house until the owner is found and file an online found animal report.
  • Bring the animal to the Nebraska Humane Society at 8929 Fort Street in Omaha.
  • Call Animal Control and we'll come and get the animal from your location. Animal Control can be reached at 402-444-7800, ext. 1. 
    • Since we are the animal control facility for the Metro area and all of Sarpy County, most owners will check our facility first. We will hold the found animal through its stray holding period. If unclaimed, the animal’s temperament and health will be assessed for entry into our adoption program.

Keep In Mind

Many animals now have a microchip implanted under the skin that is a permanent form of identification. This unique number can only be read with a microchip scanner, like those found at NHS or local veterinary clinics.

If you are successful in locating the pet’s owner, please call the Lost and Found desk at 402-905-3410 so we can close out this pet’s lost and/or found report.

E-Newsletter Signup

Sign up to receive our quarterly newsletter with Nebraska Humane Society news, resources and stories or update your info.

Get Social With Us!



NHS is a not for profit 501-C3 organization; EIN: 47-0378997. Copyright © 2024 Nebraska Humane Society. All Rights Reserved.
8929 Fort Street Omaha, Nebraska 68134
402-444-7800

Designed by Blackbaud