Lost and Found

What do I do if my animal has gone missing?

Members of the public sometimes capture straying animals and display them on the local 'buy, swap and sell' Facebook pages or take them to the local Vets.

If you have lost your pet, please contact the Council on (02) 6730 2350.

  • You will be required to complete a Statutory Declaration for a Missing Animal at Council's Church Street Office. You are legally required to do this within 72 hours of the pet going missing under NSW Legislation.
  • Check with Council's Ranger to see if your missing animal has been handed into the Pound. The Ranger will require the following information:
    • description of your animal, such as breed, colour, sex and age
    • microchip details
    • the location of where the animal was last seen
    • your name, address and contact number
  • Check with the local vet clinic to see if it has been handed in there.
  • Ask around the neighbourhood.
  • Check the local 'Buy Swap and Sell' pages on Facebook – put a listing on these pages with a photo and contact details also.
  • Check the local newspaper and radio for lost and found ads – put an ad in the local newspaper or call the radio station to place one.

NOTE: It is important to microchip and register your animal, as all animals taken to the pound are scanned for a microchip. Microchips contain the owner’s residential details and allow the speedy return of your animal.

What to do if you find a dog or cat

  • Check for an identification tag – if the animal is wearing a tag with a phone number call it.
  • Ask around the neighbourhood to see if anyone has lost their pet.
  • Check local 'Buy Swap and Sell' pages on Facebook – put a listing on these pages with a photo and contact details.
  • Check the local newspaper and radio for lost and found ads – put an ad in the local newspaper or call the radio station.
  • Contact Council's Ranger during office hours or take it to your local Veterinarian. The Vet or Council will then contact the owner.

NOTE: If you can’t find the owner you are required by law to deliver the animal to the Council Pound as soon as possible. Failure to do so may see you being issued with a Penalty Infringement Notice. People who are missing a pet will check the Council Pound, but they won’t find it in your backyard.

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