Lost and found

Lost a pet or found one? Don't know what to do? Find information below on what to do and where to make a report.

What should I do if I've lost my pet?

If you have lost your dog, cat or pet, you can report it online using Online Services, or visit contact us to find other ways to let us know.

When making a report, please provide the following information:

  • a description of the animal
  • the current registration tag number
  • microchip number
  • when and where the animal was lost
  • your name and a contact phone number.

If an animal fitting the description of your pet is found in Port Phillip, you will be contacted and asked to come to The Lost Dogs' Home to determine if it is your pet.

What should I do if I have found a pet?

If you have found a dog or cat and have it contained, contact us as soon as possible. If the animal has identification, we can get in contact with the owners by tracing the registration tag number or microchip.

It is important to report any found animals to Council.

Although you may not wish to see the animal impounded, you are required by law to deliver the cat or dog as soon as is reasonably possible to an authorised officer of the Council, or to a person or body which has an agreement with Council such as the Lost Dogs' Home.

Not doing so can reduce the owners' chances of finding their dog or cat, as the pound is the most likely place they will check. It is also important not to take the animal out of the area where it was found as this also makes it more difficult for owners to find their pet.

If you have found an animal, please contact us as soon as possible.

Where are found animals taken?

All animals that are found in the City of Port Phillip are taken to:

The Lost Dogs' Home

Animal welfare organisation caring for lost and unwanted dogs and cats.

Website: The Lost Dogs' Home
Address: 2 Gracie Street, North Melbourne, Vic 3051
Email: info@dogshome.com
Phone: 03 9329 2755

Lost and Found opening hours

Monday to Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm
Friday: 10 am to 4.45 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 3.30 pm
Sunday: 9 am to 12.30 pm
Closed on public holidays

The Lost Dogs' Home 24-hour service

You can check for lost or found animals, and submit your lost or found animals.

Website: The Lost Dogs' Home
Phone: 03 9329 9493
After-hours emergency ambulance: 03 9625 5000, pager #35945

Other places to look

Your pet may have wandered into a neighbouring council or been delivered to a vet or animal shelter. It is helpful to check with neighbouring councils or contact the organisations listed in other places to look for your lost pet (PDF 15 KB).