What to do if you find a lost pet
Finding a stray pet can be overwhelming, but there are several simple ways you can help reunite them with their family. Macomb County Animal Control is here to guide you through the process.
Step 1: Check for a microchip
Many lost pets can be reunited with their owners quickly if they are microchipped. Good Samaritans now have access to MicroChip Connect Stations located at:
- Armada
- Clinton Township
- Roseville
- Shelby Township
These self-service stations allow you to scan the pet for a microchip and attempt to contact the owner directly - often avoiding the need for the pet to come into the shelter.
Step 2: Use local holding facilities
If you cannot locate the owner, certain local facilities can temporarily house found animals. Please note that each facility only accepts pets found in their respective jurisdiction:
- Clinton Township Police Department – accepts animals found in Clinton Township ONLY
- Chesterfield Police Department – accepts animals found in Chesterfield ONLY
- Roseville Police Department – accepts animals found in Roseville ONLY
- Wilson Veterinary Hospital – accepts animals from multiple Macomb County locations
When dropping off a pet, you must include a Good Samaritan Form. This form provides us with important information about where and when the animal was found, which helps us track down their owner more quickly.
Step 3: Spread the word online
Networking is one of the fastest ways to reunite pets with their families. We encourage you to post found animals on the Facebook group: For the Love of Louie *Michigan Lost Pet Lookers*.
This community is dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their families across Michigan.
Step 4: Holding the pet yourself
If you are able and willing, you may keep the pet in your care temporarily while we work on reuniting it with its family. Simply complete this electronic Good Samaritan Form, and Macomb County Animal Control will reach out to you the next business day with next steps.
Please remember, every lost pet is someone’s beloved family member. By scanning for a microchip, filling out the Good Samaritan Form, and sharing the pet’s photo online, you are giving them the best chance of making it home safely.
In accordance with Michigan state law, legal stray hold of a dog without any trace of ownership (license, microchip or ID tag) is no less than a period of 4 business days. Pets with ownership information are held for no less than 7 business days. Any animal that is not reclaimed within its legal hold time becomes the property of Macomb County. Proof of ownership is required to reclaim your pet.
A listing of stray animals being held by Macomb County Animal Control is automatically uploaded on 24Petconnect. Lost pets can be reclaimed during regular business hours. Proper proof of ownership is required in order for us to release the animal into your care.