Lost Pet? Here's What to Do
Act Fast. Stay Calm. You’re Not Alone.
Serving Pet Parents in Ballston, Clarendon & Rosslyn
Losing a pet is heartbreaking—but the faster you act, the better your chances of a safe reunion. We’ve helped local families recover their pets, and this guide outlines what to do step-by-step.
Step 1 — Search Nearby
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Walk or drive the area calmly with your pet’s photo
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Bring treats, squeaky toys, or familiar sounds
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Ask neighbors, dog walkers, and nearby workers
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Check hiding spots: under decks, in bushes, sheds, and garages
Lost dogs usually roam. Lost cats often hide nearby and stay silent.
Step 2 — Notify Local Shelters & Animal Control
Contact shelters ASAP with:
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A clear photo
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Microchip number (if applicable)
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Pet description & your contact info
Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA)
awla.org/lost-found-pets
(703) 931-9241
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
alexandriaanimals.org
(703) 746-4774
Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation
lostdogrescue.org
(703) 295-DOGS
Fairfax County Animal Shelter
fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter
(703) 830-1100
Step 3 — Post Online & in the Community
Use These Free Tools:
Post to:
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Facebook: Arlington VA Lost & Found Pets, Lost & Found Pets DMV
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Nextdoor (in your neighborhood feed)
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Craigslist (“Lost & Found” section)
Step 4 — Update Microchip & Call Local Vets
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Log into your microchip registry and report as lost
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Double-check your contact info
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Call nearby veterinary clinics—they may scan found pets without tags
Step 5 — Create & Distribute a Flyer
Include:
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A recent photo
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Name, breed, color
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Last seen location + date
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A large, easy-to-read phone number
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Note if pet is shy/friendly or has medical needs
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Optional: Reward
Post flyers at:
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Vet offices, coffee shops, walking trails, building lobbies, mailboxes
Step 6 — Alert Your Pet Sitter or Walker
PS4C Clients: Contact us immediately.
We’ll help spread the word and connect with local shelters and building management.
After They're Found
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Schedule a vet checkup
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Secure gates, windows, doors, and fences
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Update ID tags and consider a GPS collar
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Give your pet time to decompress
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Ask us about behavioral support if needed
Need Help Right Now?
We can help create a flyer, contact shelters, or set up online alerts.