Reclaim A Lost Pet

Please follow these steps to reclaim a lost pet:

1. Check Our Lost and Found Webpage: Visit our Lost and Found page to check if your missing animal is at the shelter. We update our intake photos regularly.
2. Stop by to Reclaim Your Pet: Please come directly to the shelter during open hours to redeem your pet.  *Please note that you will need to provide Proof of Ownership and Rabies Vaccination information – See steps below
3. Determine Fees: Fees for reclaiming your lost pet can be found on the Pricing page under Owner Reclaim Fees. Please review this page to understand the costs associated with reclaiming your pet.  Understanding the fees beforehand will help ensure a smooth process when you come to reclaim your pet. If you have any questions or need further clarification on the fee structure, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
4. Provide Proof of Ownership: To establish ownership, you can use any of the following methods, all of which require you to upload proof within the form:
   1. Microchip: A microchip with your contact information is the most effective way to prove ownership. Microchipped pets are returned to their registered owners immediately.  If your pet is microchipped, but not to you, the shelter will try to contact the microchip owner for permission to transfer ownership. If that person(s) cannot be reached, your animal will remain on hold for 5 business days, excluding weekends and holidays. At the end of the hold, an appointment will be made for you to retrieve the animal and the microchip will then legally be transferred into your name for ownership.
   2. Veterinary Records: Veterinary records can serve as proof of ownership and can be directly uploaded within the form.
   3. Photos: Five photos that show your pet over time can also help establish ownership. Make sure the photos span a period of time and are not all from the same day or event.
   4. Bill of Sale: If you received your pet from a shelter, rescue, or breeder, a bill of sale can serve as proof of ownership.
   5. Permission Letter: If you’re reclaiming a pet on behalf of a family member or friend, a permission letter is required. The letter should state: “I, [Owner’s Name], give permission to [Your Name] to pick up/reclaim my pet, [Pet’s Name], from West Valley Humane Society on [Date].” The letter must be signed and dated by the owner, and their driver’s license must accompany it. Take a photo of the letter and driver’s license together. If the microchip indicates a different owner than you, the same letter should indicate: “This pet was rehomed to [Your Name] on [Date], and they are now the owner of this animal.” 
5. Rabies Vaccination: Please note that all dogs in the state of Idaho are required to have a rabies vaccine. If your dog is current on this vaccine, please upload proof of the vaccination within the form.

We appreciate your commitment to providing proof of ownership for a smooth and efficient reunification with your pet. If you need further assistance, encounter issues, or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.