What to do if you find a stray dog
If you find a straying dog you need to either hand the dog over to the local dog warden or detain the dog and notify the nearest Garda station or Dog Warden in writing. This notice must include:
Required Information for Authorities:
- A description of the dog
- The location where the dog was found
- The address where the dog is being kept
This process ensures the dog is entered into the official register of found dogs. You can also share the details of this dog on one or more of these Facebook Groups who specialise in helping lost dogs. A dog warden or a vet can also scan the dog's microchip and try to locate the owner that way.
Important
Do not keep the dog without reporting: Failing to notify authorities can be considered unlawful. You can take other steps as well, but you must inform the proper authorities first.
Irish Lost & Found Pet Facebook Groups
| # | Group Name | Members | Facebook Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Irish Dogs Lost Found Stolen | 70K | Visit Group |
| 2 | Munster lost and found pet helpline | 53K | Visit Group |
| 3 | Northern Ireland Pets Lost Found Stolen | 50K | Visit Group |
| 4 | Lost and Found Pets in Dublin, Ireland | 22K | Visit Group |
| 5 | Rescue Lost Stolen Dogs North And South Of Ireland | 19.3K | Visit Group |
| 6 | Missing/Stolen Animals Ireland | 16K | Visit Group |
| 7 | County Down Pets Lost and Found | 15K | Visit Group |
| 8 | Irelands Animals Lost Found Stolen | 7.4K | Visit Group |
| 9 | Ireland's lost and found Animals | 6.4K | Visit Group |
| 10 | Lost and Found.ie | 3K | Visit Group |
Frequently Asked Questions
First ensure your safety and the dog's safety. If the dog appears friendly, check for a collar with tags. Then either hand the dog over to the local dog warden or detain the dog and notify the nearest Garda station or Dog Warden in writing with a description of the dog, where it was found, and where it's being kept.
Yes, failing to notify authorities can be considered unlawful. You must inform the proper authorities first - either the local dog warden or Garda station. This ensures the dog is entered into the official register of found dogs.
You would need a microchip scanner. A dog warden or any vet can scan the dog's microchip and look up the owner's details for free. This is often the quickest way to locate the owner as the microchip will be linked to the owner's contact details in one of the approved databases.
Under Irish law, a dog must be held for a minimum of 5 days before it can be rehomed. During this time, every effort should be made to locate the owner. The dog warden will advise on the specific procedures in your area.
Yes, after notifying the authorities, posting on Facebook groups specialising in lost and found pets is highly recommended. Include clear photos, the area where found, and your contact details. Be cautious about giving too many identifying details to prevent false claims.
Do not approach an aggressive or severely injured dog. Contact your local dog warden immediately, or call the Gardaí who can arrange for professional help. For injured dogs, you can also contact local animal rescue organisations who may be able to assist.
Helping Reunite Families
By following the proper procedures and using social media networks, you can help reunite a lost dog with their worried family. Every step you take makes a difference in bringing them home safely.
