Rabies Information

• Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus. The virus is found in the saliva of a rabid animal and is transmitted by a bite, or possibly by saliva contamination of an open cut or the eyes. Left untreated, rabies attacks the nervous system and causes death.
• For more information on Rabies: NJ Health Department at 609-826-4872 or 609-826-4874 If you think you have been exposed, please contact your healthcare provider or the nearest human emergency room.

Who Pays for This?

• Ever wonder who pays for the patients brought in by Good Samaritans? While there is some variability between townships, in general, every municipality has a contracted relationship with both an animal control organization and with a particular veterinary hospital. This means that you must check with the veterinary hospital prior to bringing an animal in to see if they are contracted to work with that municipality. If you find a stray animal, call your local animal control before transporting the animal to a veterinary hospital.

Local ACO’s

• Burlington County: 609-685-3384
• Camden County: 855-422-7226
• M & R Wildlife Removal/ACO Burlington County: (856) 786-6623
• Shore Animal Control: (800) 351-1822

What Happens After You Report a Found Pet?

Many Good Samaritans wonder what happens after they’ve safely secured a lost pet. Some people worry they’ll be asked to keep the animal indefinitely, while others aren’t sure whether they should take the pet to a shelter, a veterinarian, or simply continue searching the neighborhood themselves.

The good news is that South Jersey has an established system designed to help reunite lost pets with their families as quickly and safely as possible.

Once you’ve reported a found pet to the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter, that organization begins documenting important information, including where the pet was found, the date and time, physical description, and whether the animal is wearing identification or has a microchip. This information is compared against reports from owners who have contacted local shelters, veterinary hospitals, and animal control agencies searching for a missing pet.

Because each municipality has different procedures and contracted providers, it’s important to report the pet based on where the animal was found, not where you live. For example, if you find a lost dog while shopping in Cherry Hill but live in Medford, the report should generally be made through the municipality where the dog was discovered.

Many people are surprised to learn that most found pets are located relatively close to home. Dogs often travel only a few miles before someone safely secures them, while indoor cats frequently hide within a few houses of where they escaped. That’s why reporting a found pet quickly is so important. While you’re making phone calls, a worried owner may already be contacting local animal control agencies hoping someone has found their beloved companion.

If the pet has a registered microchip or visible identification, reunification can happen very quickly. If no owner is immediately identified, animal control agencies and shelters observe legally required stray holding periods while continuing to search for the family. During that time, many organizations also compare reports with online lost pet listings, veterinary hospitals, rescue groups, and local community resources.

As a Good Samaritan, you may be asked whether you’re willing to temporarily foster the pet while ownership is being verified. In some situations, this can reduce stress for the animal while still allowing the official reunification process to move forward. If fostering isn’t possible, don’t worry—simply reporting the pet and helping it reach the appropriate agency has already made a tremendous difference.

The most important thing to remember is that every phone call, every microchip scan, and every report increases the likelihood that a frightened family will soon receive the news they’ve been hoping for.

I’ve Lost My Pet. What Should I Do?

Discovering that your dog or cat is missing can be heartbreaking. Whether your pet slipped through an open gate, became frightened during a thunderstorm, escaped while traveling, or darted through an open front door, it’s natural to panic. While emotions run high, taking organized action immediately gives you the best chance of bringing your pet home safely.

The first hour is often the most important.

Start by thoroughly searching your home and property. Cats are especially skilled at hiding in closets, basements, garages, crawl spaces, and underneath furniture. Dogs may remain surprisingly close to home, hiding beneath decks, behind sheds, or inside neighboring yards.

Once you’ve confirmed your pet isn’t nearby, begin searching your neighborhood on foot. Walking rather than driving allows you to call your pet’s name calmly and listen for barking, meowing, or movement. Bring your pet’s favorite treats, squeaky toy, or leash. Familiar sounds and scents often encourage frightened pets to come out of hiding.

Ask neighbors to check inside garages, sheds, barns, fenced yards, and under porches. It’s common for frightened pets to become trapped accidentally after seeking shelter.

If your pet has a microchip, contact the registration company immediately and report your pet as missing. Verify that all of your contact information—including phone numbers and emergency contacts—is current. A microchip can only help if someone is able to reach you.

Next, contact the municipal animal control agency responsible for the area where your pet disappeared. Don’t stop there. Notify nearby shelters, veterinary hospitals, emergency animal hospitals, and rescue organizations throughout Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Marlton, Medford, Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Hainesport, Lumberton, Delran, Maple Shade, Burlington Township, and surrounding Burlington County and Camden County communities. Many Good Samaritans bring found pets directly to a veterinary hospital to be scanned for a microchip, making it worthwhile for local hospitals to know your pet is missing.

Create a clear flyer using a recent color photograph. Include your pet’s name, breed, approximate weight, coloring, distinguishing markings, and your phone number. Post flyers in veterinary offices, pet supply stores, community bulletin boards, and neighborhoods near where your pet disappeared.

Online resources can dramatically expand your search. Share your pet on neighborhood Facebook groups, Petco Love Lost, PawBoost, Nextdoor, and other trusted lost pet websites. Include multiple clear photographs and the general location where your pet was last seen. Continue updating your posts if there are new sightings.

It’s also important to continue checking with shelters and animal control agencies every day. Many owners make one phone call and assume someone will contact them if their pet is found. Unfortunately, descriptions can vary, paperwork can be delayed, and shelters may receive many animals each day. Staying actively involved in the search significantly improves your chances of a reunion.

Most importantly, don’t lose hope. Every week, veterinary hospitals and shelters throughout South Jersey help reunite pets with families after several days—and sometimes even weeks—apart. Persistence truly makes a difference.

Seasonal Tips for Lost Pets in South Jersey

Every season presents unique challenges for pets and the people trying to help them. Weather, holidays, travel, and changes in routine all contribute to an increase in lost dogs and cats throughout Mount Laurel, Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Marlton, Medford, Burlington County, and communities across South Jersey. Understanding these seasonal risks can help pet owners prevent escapes and prepare Good Samaritans to respond appropriately when they find a lost animal.

Spring

As temperatures begin to warm, many families spend more time outdoors, increasing the likelihood that pets will slip through open gates or doors. Spring storms can also frighten dogs and cats, causing them to run farther than they normally would.

This is also the time of year when many puppies and kittens begin exploring their surroundings for the first time. Curious young pets can easily wander away from home if they are left unattended in the yard.

If you find a young puppy or kitten, don’t automatically assume it has been abandoned. Many are only a short distance from home, and their owners may already be searching nearby. Before attempting to care for the animal yourself, check for identification and contact the appropriate local animal control agency or shelter.

Spring is also baby wildlife season. Rabbits, squirrels, birds, and other wild animals are frequently mistaken for orphaned pets. Healthy wildlife should be left alone whenever possible. If you believe a wild animal is injured or orphaned, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator such as Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge for guidance.

Summer

Summer is one of the busiest times of year for lost pets throughout South Jersey.

Children are home from school, backyard parties become more common, and families travel with their pets more frequently. Unfortunately, all of these activities create more opportunities for dogs and cats to escape.

If you’re spending time outside, make sure gates are securely closed before letting your dog into the yard. Remind guests not to leave doors standing open, especially during barbecues and pool parties.

If you find a pet during hot weather, move it into the shade immediately and offer fresh water if the animal is alert and able to drink safely. Never leave a found pet inside a parked vehicle, even if the windows are cracked.

Temperatures inside a car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

Watch for signs of heatstroke, including excessive panting, weakness, vomiting, collapse, or bright red gums. Heatstroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary care.

Many lost pets are found after becoming separated from their families while camping, hiking, or visiting the Jersey Shore. If you discover a pet in one of these situations, reporting the exact location where the animal was found can be extremely helpful for owners who are actively searching the area.

Fourth of July

Fireworks are one of the leading causes of lost pets every year.

Even calm, confident dogs can panic when they hear loud explosions. Cats may hide in places that are difficult to access or run far from home in an attempt to escape the noise.

If you find a dog wandering after fireworks, there’s a good chance someone is already looking for them. Report the pet as soon as possible, check for identification, and have the animal scanned for a microchip.

Pet owners can reduce the risk of escape by keeping pets indoors before fireworks begin, closing windows and doors, and providing a quiet room with familiar bedding and calming background noise.

Autumn

Cooler weather encourages longer walks and more outdoor activities, but shorter days also make it harder to spot lost pets.

If your dog or cat goes missing during the fall, carry a flashlight during evening searches and wear reflective clothing if you’re walking near roadways.

Halloween brings another unique challenge. Frequent visitors opening the front door can create opportunities for curious pets to slip outside unnoticed. Decorations, costumes, and unfamiliar noises may also cause anxious animals to bolt.

Take extra precautions by keeping pets in a secure room during trick-or-treat hours and reminding children not to leave doors open.

Winter

Cold temperatures create additional risks for lost pets.

Dogs and cats can develop hypothermia if they remain outdoors for extended periods, especially during freezing rain, snow, or high winds.

If you find a pet during cold weather, provide warmth while arranging transportation to safety. A blanket, towel, or warm vehicle can help prevent further heat loss until the pet can be evaluated

Snow can also make it difficult for owners to follow tracks, particularly after additional snowfall. Searching quickly after a pet goes missing often improves the chances of finding fresh footprints or signs of movement.

The holiday season brings visitors, deliveries, and frequent trips in and out of the house. Pets often escape through doors that are opened repeatedly throughout the day.

Before holiday gatherings, confirm that collars fit properly, identification tags are current, and microchip information is up to date. These simple steps significantly improve the chances of a happy reunion if an unexpected escape occurs.

Common Mistakes Good Samaritans Should Avoid

Helping a lost pet is one of the kindest things you can do, but a few common mistakes can unintentionally make it harder to reunite the animal with its owner.

Assuming the pet was abandoned

Many lost pets look dirty, tired, or frightened after spending time outdoors. That doesn’t mean they don’t have a loving family searching for them.

Taking the pet home without reporting it

While your intentions may be good, owners typically begin by contacting animal control agencies, shelters, and veterinary hospitals. If the pet isn’t reported, those organizations have no way of connecting you with the family.

Posting every identifying detail online

Sharing clear photos is helpful, but avoid listing every unique characteristic. Keeping a few identifying details private helps verify ownership and discourages fraudulent claims.

Introducing the pet to your own animals immediately

Even friendly pets can become stressed in unfamiliar environments. Keep found pets separated until they have been examined by a veterinarian and the appropriate reunification process has begun.

Waiting too long to seek medical care

If a found pet appears injured, weak, or in distress, don’t delay treatment while trying to locate the owner. Emergency veterinary care should always come first.

Assuming someone else has already reported the pet

Even if you’ve seen social media posts about a found animal, make your own report to the appropriate municipal agency. Multiple reports often help confirm sightings and improve the chances of a successful reunion.

Animal Control & Shelter Resources for South Jersey

If you’ve found a lost dog or cat, notifying the appropriate animal control agency is one of the most important things you can do. Animal control officers and contracted shelters maintain official lost and found reports, observe state-required stray holding periods, and work to reunite pets with their families.

One of the most common mistakes Good Samaritans make is contacting the wrong municipality. Animal control responsibilities are based on where the pet was found, not where you live.

For example, if you live in Moorestown but find a dog while visiting Cherry Hill, you should report the dog to the agency responsible for Cherry Hill. The same applies throughout Mount Laurel, Marlton, Medford, Hainesport, Lumberton, Delran, Maple Shade, Burlington Township, Voorhees, Camden County, Burlington County, and neighboring South Jersey communities.

Because municipal contracts occasionally change, maintaining a complete directory on our website could result in outdated information. Instead, we recommend using the official directory maintained by the Animal Welfare Association (AWA), which provides the most current list of municipalities, contracted shelters, animal control agencies, and contact information throughout South Jersey.

Official South Jersey Animal Control Directory
View the Animal Welfare Association’s Contracted Shelter & Animal Control Directory

Before making your report, try to have the following information available:
• The exact location where the pet was found
• Date and approximate time
• Breed, if known
• Color and approximate size
• Collar or identification tags
• Any injuries or medical concerns
• Clear photographs of the pet

Providing detailed information helps animal control agencies compare your report with owners who are actively searching for their missing pets.

Additional Lost Pet Resources

In addition to your local animal control agency, several trusted organizations can help reunite lost pets with their families. Using multiple resources increases visibility and gives owners more opportunities to locate their pet.

Animal Welfare Association (AWA)

AWA maintains South Jersey’s official directory of contracted animal shelters and animal control agencies. Their website also provides valuable information for Good Samaritans and pet owners searching for missing animals.

Petco Love Lost

Petco Love Lost uses photo recognition technology to help reunite lost pets with their owners. Uploading a photo allows the system to compare your pet with thousands of found pet reports across the country.

PawBoost

PawBoost allows owners and Good Samaritans to create lost and found pet alerts that are shared with local communities and social media.

24Petconnect

Many municipal shelters and animal control agencies list found animals through 24Petconnect. Checking this database regularly can help owners locate pets that have already entered the shelter system.

Nextdoor

Neighborhood-based platforms like Nextdoor are often one of the fastest ways to connect with nearby residents who may have seen a missing pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first if I find a lost dog or cat?

If the pet is safe to approach, move it away from traffic and into a secure location if possible. Check for identification tags, note the exact location where the pet was found, and contact the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter for that municipality. The Animal Welfare Association (AWA) maintains a directory of animal control agencies and contracted shelters throughout South Jersey to help you find the correct contact information.

Who should I call if I find a lost pet?

Healthy stray pets should be reported to the municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter responsible for the municipality where the pet was found. The Animal Welfare Association (AWA) maintains an up-to-date directory of municipalities, contracted shelters, and contact information throughout South Jersey.

What if the pet appears injured?

If the pet appears to have a serious injury or medical emergency, contact the appropriate municipal animal control agency as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on the safest and most appropriate next steps based on the animal’s condition and location.

What if the pet doesn’t have a collar?

Many lost pets lose their collars while escaping or exploring. A missing collar does not mean the pet is homeless. Report the pet to the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter so they can assist with the next steps, including checking for a microchip if appropriate.

Should I feed a found pet?

Fresh water is appropriate if the pet is alert and able to drink. Food can usually wait until you’ve contacted the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter. Avoid giving unfamiliar foods, especially if the pet appears sick or injured.

Can I keep a pet I found?

Found pets should always be reported to the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter first. State and local regulations provide owners with the opportunity to reclaim their pets before other arrangements are considered.

Should I post a found pet on social media?

Yes. Sharing clear photos and the general location where the pet was found can help reunite families. Social media is a valuable tool, but it should complement, not replace, reporting the pet to the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter.

What if I found an exotic pet?

Rabbits, birds, reptiles, ferrets, and other companion animals occasionally escape from their homes. Healthy exotic pets should also be reported to the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter. They can provide guidance based on the type of animal and the municipality where it was found.

Should I help injured wildlife?

If you find injured or orphaned wildlife, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, such as Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, for guidance. Healthy wildlife should generally be left alone unless it is in immediate danger.

How far do lost dogs usually travel?

Every dog is different. Some remain within a few blocks of home, while others travel farther depending on their temperament, weather conditions, and what caused them to become frightened. Reporting found pets promptly gives owners the best opportunity to locate them.

Do indoor cats usually stay close to home?

Many indoor cats stay surprisingly close to where they escaped, often hiding beneath decks, inside sheds, under bushes, or in neighboring garages. Because frightened cats tend to remain quiet, owners should search thoroughly and ask neighbors to check common hiding places.

How long should I keep searching for my lost pet?

Don’t give up too soon. Many pets are reunited with their families days or even weeks after they disappear. Continue checking with animal control agencies, contracted shelters, and trusted lost pet resources regularly.

Why is it important to report a found pet?

Reporting a found pet creates an official record that can be matched with owners who have reported their pet missing. It is one of the most effective ways to help reunite pets with their families.

Where can I find animal control information for my town?

The Animal Welfare Association (AWA) maintains a comprehensive directory of municipalities, contracted shelters, animal control agencies, and contact information for communities throughout South Jersey. We recommend using their directory to locate the correct agency for the municipality where the pet was found.

What information should I have when I contact animal control?

Be prepared to provide the location where the pet was found, the date and approximate time, a description of the animal, any identification tags you observed, and clear photographs if possible. This information helps animal control agencies compare your report with owners who have reported a missing pet.

What if I can’t safely approach the pet?

Do not put yourself or others at risk. If the pet is frightened, aggressive, or running through traffic, keep a safe distance and contact the appropriate municipal animal control agency. Provide the exact location and any details that may help them safely respond.

Every lost pet has a family wondering where they are tonight. Every phone call, every shared photo, every microchip scan, and every act of kindness brings another pet one step closer to home.
Whether you’re helping a frightened dog found in Cherry Hill, searching for a missing cat in Moorestown, or bringing an injured pet from Mount Laurel, Marlton, Medford, or anywhere in South Jersey, know that your compassion truly matters.

Common Myths About Lost Pets

When a pet goes missing or you’re trying to help a lost animal, it’s easy to rely on advice you’ve heard from friends or read online. Unfortunately, some of the most common beliefs about lost pets simply aren’t true. Understanding the facts can improve the chances of a safe and successful reunion.

Myth: A dog without a collar must be a stray.
Fact: Many family pets lose their collars while exploring, jumping fences, or becoming caught on branches or fencing. A missing collar doesn’t mean a pet has been abandoned or doesn’t have an owner. Always report the pet to the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter.

Myth: Indoor cats always come back on their own.
Fact: Many indoor cats stay very close to home after escaping, but they often hide silently under decks, inside sheds, beneath bushes, or in neighboring garages. Because frightened cats frequently remain quiet, owners may walk right past them without realizing they’re nearby. Careful searching and notifying local animal control, contracted shelters, and trusted lost pet resources remain essential.

Myth: Someone else probably already reported the pet.
Fact: Never assume another person has contacted animal control or a shelter. Every report helps create a more complete picture of where and when a pet has been seen. Multiple reports often help reunite pets with their families more quickly.

Myth: If the pet looks healthy, it doesn’t need any help.
Fact: Even if a pet appears healthy, it still needs to be reported to the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter. Many lost pets look perfectly fine but have families actively searching for them.

Myth: A pet without identification doesn’t have an owner.
Fact: Many pets lose their collars during an escape or simply aren’t wearing one when they get out. Never assume a pet is homeless just because you don’t immediately find identification.

Myth: I should give a found pet a bath before doing anything else.
Fact: Unless the animal has been exposed to a hazardous substance, cleaning can usually wait. Focus first on keeping the pet safe, documenting where it was found, and contacting the appropriate municipal animal control agency. Bathing may also add unnecessary stress to an already frightened animal.

Myth: It’s better to take a found pet home than report it.
Fact: While your intentions are kind, reporting the pet is one of the most important steps in helping it return home. Owners typically contact animal control agencies and contracted shelters first. If the pet isn’t reported, those organizations have no way of connecting you with the family searching for it.

Myth: Dogs always know how to find their way home.
Fact: Some dogs return home on their own, but many continue wandering because they’re frightened, disoriented, or following unfamiliar sights and scents. Reporting a found dog promptly gives the owner the best chance of being reunited.

Myth: Social media is all I need to do.
Fact: Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and other community pages are valuable tools, but they should never replace contacting the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter. The most successful reunions happen when official reporting and community outreach work together.

Myth: Animal control isn’t necessary if I’m caring for the pet.
Fact: Even if you’re temporarily caring for a found pet, it’s still important to report it to the municipality where it was found. Animal control agencies maintain official lost and found reports and can connect your information with owners who are actively searching.

The Bottom Line
Every lost pet deserves the opportunity to make it back home. Taking a few extra minutes to report a found pet, document where it was found, and contact the appropriate municipal animal control agency or contracted shelter can make all the difference. Your actions may be the reason a worried family is reunited with their dog, cat, or other companion animal.