Help, I found a stray!

Thank you for caring for our community critters! We've got you covered. Let's team up and reunite them with their family.

I found an animal with a QR Code Tag!

  • Scan the microchip

    If the animal you found has a QR code tag, it means that they have a microchip with their family's information on it. There are several locations where you can get a found animal scanned for free. Click below or scroll down to see locations.

    Scanner Locations

  • After scanning the microchip

    Click the button below and look up the microchip number displayed on the scanner screen.

    Keep in mind that you may not leave the animal you found at any of the scanner locations. If you absolutely cannot keep the animal in your care, contact the Buncombe County Animal Shelter (information below).

    Microchip lookup

  • Create a report with the Microchip Company

    Follow the prompt to complete a found pet report online or call the number displayed.

    Allow 24 hours for the microchip company to reach out to the pet’s owner.

    Report a found pet

  • Report the pet to the shelter and online

    While the microchip company is reaching out to the found pet’s family, you should report the pet as found with Buncombe County Animal Shelter by clicking the button below. Also, report the found pet on websites like Pawboost, PetcoLove Lost, and other social media sources.

    report to shelter

  • Next Steps

    If the owner does not contact you within 24 hours, call/text (877) 849-2239 or schedule a time online to speak with the staff of Asheville Humane Society about next steps.

    SCHEDULE A TIME

Asheville Microchip Scanner Locations

Help them reunite

If you are able to keep the lost pet in your home, here are some tips on how you can help them get back to the people they love. Spreading the word can significantly increase the chances of a lost pet getting home safely. 

  • Search Nextdoor, Pawboost, Petco Love Lost, social media, and local shelters for lost pet reports. Can't find anything? Create your own found pet posting.

  • Print and hang them up at local stores, veterinary clinics, and offices near the area that the pet was found. Need help? Report a found pet on Pawboost or PetFBI, and they will create a found pet flyer for you!

  • Most pets are lost within a mile of their home. Ask neighbors if they recognize the lost pet or if they have other information that could help.

  • If you need advice or pet supplies to help care for a lost pet, please visit the Buncombe County Animal Shelter. You will have access to a microchip scanner, reunification tools, and emergency pet supplies like food and crates. You can also call Asheville Humane Society’s helpline at 828-761-2008 or text the word HELPLINE to 828-220-5559.

Shelter Information

Animals are much more likely to be reunited with their families outside of the shelter. However, if you are unable to keep the animal in your care, but are able to transport the animal, you can bring them to Buncombe County Animal Shelter. If the shelter is closed or you are unable to transport them, contact Animal Services for assistance.

Asheville Animal Services: (828) 252-1110

Buncombe County Animal Services: (828) 250-6670

Hours of operation:

Shelter Services: Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Intake Services: Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

**The Buncombe County Animal Shelter is partly funded by Buncombe County and operated solely by Asheville Humane Society. Per the county contract, the shelter has the ability to halt intakes in response to outbreak or overcrowding concerns.

If you are looking for information on Rabies Vaccines, microchips, microchip tags, end-of-life-services, or something else, click the button below.