Found a lost dog or cat? What to do in the UK

• Approach slowly and speak calmly. Let the animal come to you.
• Don't chase a frightened pet, especially near a road.
• If you can, move them somewhere safe, like a garden or your home, and offer some water.
• If the animal is injured, call a vet straight away. In England and Wales you can also call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999, and in Scotland the Scottish SPCA on 03000 999 999.

Check the collar for a tag with a name, address or phone number. If there's a QR code, point your phone camera at it. The pet's profile opens in your browser, usually with a way to call or message the owner, and there's nothing to download.

If it's a PetTag, you can message the owner from the page and share where you are, even if they've kept their phone number private.

All dogs in the UK must be microchipped, and so must pet cats in England. Any vet practice can scan the chip, and most do it free of charge. The vet can then look up the chip and contact the owner for you.

If you find a stray dog and can't contact the owner, you must report it to your local council. Most councils have a dog warden or stray dog service, and GOV.UK can find your council from your postcode.

If you'd like to keep the dog, tell the council. If they can't find the owner, you may be allowed to keep it.

Cats often roam a wide area, so a cat outdoors isn't always lost. Signs a cat may need help include being thin or very hungry, seeming unwell or injured, or turning up in the same place for days. Ask neighbours if they know the cat before taking it in.

If you think the cat is lost, ask a vet to scan it for a microchip, and contact Cats Protection or a local rescue centre. They may be able to help find the owner.

• Post a clear photo in local Facebook groups and on Nextdoor, saying where and when you found the pet.
• Keep one detail back, like a marking or the colour of the collar, so you can check that whoever gets in touch is the real owner.
• Register the pet as found on a UK lost-and-found site such as Animal Search UK or DogLost.
• Tell local vets and rescue centres, because owners often call them first.

Ask them to describe the pet or show you photos before you hand them over. If you're unsure, arrange the handover at a vet practice, or ask the council for advice.