Guide

Lost pet, shelter and adoption: the steps that bring it home

A dog that escapes, a lost cat, a seized or abandoned animal: each has its own path, and time matters. An animal without identification has little chance of returning.

Check before acting

A dog that escapes, a lost cat, a seized or abandoned animal: each has its own path, and time matters. An animal without identification has little chance of returning.

The first move is a centralised report, not a poster

Many municipalities and shelters work with a shared registry of found animals: one report with a photo and description beats ten posters. Vets are also informed in practice.

Official sources

Sources: Quebec — animal welfare (https://www.quebec.ca/en/agriculture-environment-and-natural-resources/animal-welfare); Quebec — municipalities (https://www.quebec.ca/en/government/municipal-management). Checked September 20, 2026 — amounts, deadlines and fees are not reproduced here: confirm with the official source.

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