Stray Cats
Reclaiming a Stray Cat
Reuniting lost pets with their loving owners is our top priority. If you’ve spotted your missing cat in our records below as a stray in our shelter, here are some essential steps to guide you through the process:
- Proof of Ownership:
- Owners must provide proof of ownership at the time of reclaim.
- Acceptable documents include vet bills, five photos showing the animal over time, or a bill of sale.
- Please ensure that your pet’s microchip information is up to date, as microchips take precedence over other forms of ownership.
- Reclaim Fees:
- Reclaim fees are outlined on our dedicated Pricing page under the Owner Reclaim Fees section.
- These fees depend on the latest vaccine records, spaying/neutering status, and city licensing.
- For detailed pricing information, please visit the Pricing page as pricing estimates cannot be provided over the phone.
- Shelter Vaccines:
- All animals receive a booster vaccine upon intake.
- These vaccines protect your pet from common shelter-related illnesses and help prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
- Rabies Vaccination:
- Proof of rabies vaccination will be required during the reclaim process.
- Pets may not leave the shelter without a current rabies vaccination.
- City Licensing:
- If you reside in the city limits of Nampa or Caldwell, you may need to purchase a dog license when reclaiming.
- Licensing fees vary based on your dog’s spaying/neutering status and microchipping.
- Holding Period:
- Cats do not have a specified holding time; their stay duration depends on shelter capacity.
Please Note:
- Our dedicated animal control collaborates with the shelter to help reunite lost pets.
- Animal Control and West Valley Humane Society are distinct entities, each providing different services.
- If your animal arrived at the shelter, it was brought in by a concerned citizen or through Animal Control, not directly by shelter staff.
For a detailed guide on reclaiming your stray dog, including instructions and required documents, please visit our Reclaim A Lost Pet page.
By following these steps, you can bring your beloved cat back home. We look forward to assisting you in the reunion process.
*For mobile view, after clicking on an individual animal, please turn your phone horizontal or scroll to the right to see the animal ID information needed reclaiming purposes