How to Submit a Found Pet Report Using the National Pet Record Search

Overview:

Submitting a Found Pet Report is one of the most valuable tools available through the National Animal Shelter Network (NASN).

A Found Pet Report helps support reunification by:

• Notifying the pet owner through the HomeSafe® program.
• Alerting the DocuPet HomeSafe® team.
• Documenting that the pet has been located.
• Providing an additional pathway to reconnect the pet with their owner.

Whenever possible, submit a Found Pet Report after confirming that the found pet matches the record located through the National Pet Record Search tool.

When Should a Found Pet Report Be Submitted?

A Found Pet Report should be submitted when:

• You have confirmed a likely match between the found pet and an existing record.
• You are unable to reach the pet owner directly.
• Owner contact information is hidden or unavailable.
• Your organization requires documentation for found pets.

How-To:

Step 1: Open National Pet Record Search

From the main dashboard:

1. Select National Pet Record Search.
2. Search for the found pet using available information such as:
   • Tag number
   • Microchip number
   • Tattoo number
   • Pet details or physical characteristics

Step 2: Open the Pet Record

Once you locate the correct pet record:

1. Review the available pet information to confirm it matches the found pet.
2. Select Create Found Pet Report.

Step 3: Complete the Found Pet Report

You will be directed to the pet’s tag information page.

Select Fill Out a Found Pet Report and complete the required information.

The report includes:

Your Contact Information

Enter your information so the pet owner and HomeSafe® team can follow up if needed:

• First Name.
• Last Name.
• Phone Number.
• Cell Phone Number.
• Email Address.

Pet Information

Provide details about the pet’s condition:

• How is the pet doing?
• Any additional notes you would like to share with the pet owner.

Found Details

Enter information about where and when the pet was found:

• Found date.
• Found time.
• Whether the pet is currently in your possession.
• Pet’s last known location.

Step 4: Submit the Found Pet Report

Before submitting:

1. Review the information entered.
2. Confirm that you understand the information will be shared with the pet owner.
3. Select I agree.
4. Click on Submit and Send to Pet Owner.

What Happens After a Found Pet Report Is Submitted?

Once submitted:

• The pet owner will receive an email notification with the found pet information.
• The DocuPet HomeSafe® team will review the report.
• A HomeSafe® team member may contact the finder for additional details.
• DocuPet will also attempt to contact the pet owner by phone to help facilitate reunification.

Submitting a Found Pet Report creates an additional notification pathway and increases the likelihood of quickly reconnecting the pet with their owner.

Important Notes:

• Always verify the pet record before submitting a Found Pet Report.
• Provide as much detail as possible to help the owner identify and safely recover their pet.
• If you are unable to confirm a match, continue using available search tools and follow your organization’s found pet procedures.