What do you do if you find a lost dog in Texas?

If you have found a stray, please contact the local animal control in the area closest to where you found the pet. Taking the pet to a local shelter will increase the likelihood of the pet being reunited with their owner. Please download our North Texas Shelters Reference Guide for a list of available resources.

Where is the best place to find a lost dog?

Spread the word Post notices at grocery stores, laundromats, community centers, veterinary offices, dog parks, pet supply stores and other locations. Use local social media sites and missing pet registries to help get the word out.

Can I legally keep a dog I found in Texas?

Dogs and other companion animals are considered the personal property of their owners. Thus, the short legal answer to the question above provides that if a rightful owner finds his or her dog, he or she then can assert ownership.

Why do dogs run away?

Your dog might figure out a way to take off if they are bored. Maybe you left them alone for a long time and they are lonely. Or they may have lots of energy to use up because they don’t have toys or other dogs to play with. Or maybe they are having more fun somewhere else.

How long do dogs usually go missing?

Statistics indicate that most lost pets are recovered within 30 days. But the time varies greatly depending on whether it is a cat or a dog. Most people will notice a stray dog and even try to help it.

How long before a dog is considered abandoned in Texas?

Table of State Holding Laws

STATE LAW(S) LENGTH OF HOLDING PERIOD
Tennessee T. C. A. § 68-8-107 Dog or cat wearing rabies vaccination tag or other identification 5 days Dog or cat not wearing tag or other identification 3 days
Texas
Utah U.C.A. 1953 § 11-46-103 5 days
Vermont