Found a Puppy? Here’s What to Do Next
It’s hard to resist a puppy—those big eyes and tiny paws tug at our hearts instantly. If you’ve found a puppy alone or in an unsafe situation, your instinct to help is a good one. But there are some important steps to take to ensure the puppy gets the care and safety it needs.
Here’s your guide on what to do if you find a puppy:
1. Report to Animal Control or Your Local Shelter
Your first step should be to report the found puppy to your local animal control agency or shelter. Why?
- It’s often required by law to report found animals.
- The puppy may be lost and someone could be looking for them, and owners searching for their lost pet often alert animal control first!
- Shelters and animal control maintain lost-and-found records and may help reunite the puppy with their owner.
Even if you plan to care for the puppy temporarily, filing a report ensures you’re doing the right thing legally and ethically.
2. Check for Identification
Take a close look for any form of ID:
- Tags: A collar with a name or phone number can lead to a quick reunion.
- Microchip: You can bring the puppy to a shelter or veterinary clinic to have them scanned for a microchip at no charge.
If there’s no ID, be sure to post on local lost pet groups, neighborhood forums, and community bulletin boards. Include a clear photo and where the puppy was found.
3. Hold the Puppy Safely (If You’re Able)
If animal control allows and you’re willing, consider holding onto the puppy temporarily while the search for an owner takes place. Most shelters have a “finder to foster” program which will provide you support and supplies while keeping the puppy out of the overcrowded, stressful shelter!
Make sure to:
- Keep the puppy warm, fed, and safe.
- Monitor their health—puppies are vulnerable to illness and parasites.
- Limit exposure to other pets until they’ve been checked by a vet.
If you can’t hold the puppy, your local shelter may be able to take them in or refer you to a rescue group.
4. Consider Adoption or Rehoming
If no owner comes forward after a reasonable time (usually a few days to a week, depending on local laws), and you’re interested, you may be able to adopt the puppy yourself. If that’s not an option for you, work with your local shelter or rescue to help the puppy find a loving new home.
Shelters often have adoption or foster programs that can support you through the process, providing vet care, supplies, and guidance.
Thank You for Caring
Finding a puppy is a big moment—but by following these four simple steps, you’re giving them the best chance at a safe, happy future. Whether they’re reunited with their family or find a new home, your compassion makes all the difference.
Need help or have questions? Contact posh@spcabc.org—we’re here to support you.
SPCA of Brazoria County 
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