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Lost Pet? Here's What to Do Next

Losing a pet is incredibly stressful, but taking fast, focused action can greatly improve your chances of a safe reunion.

 

This guide is designed for pet parents in Ballston, Clarendon, Rosslyn, and surrounding Northern Virginia neighborhoods. We’ve included trusted local contacts, online tools, and practical steps you can take right away.

Step 1 — Search Nearby

  • Walk or drive the neighborhood with your pet’s photo

  • Call their name calmly and avoid chasing

  • Bring high-value treats, squeaky toys, or familiar sounds

  • Ask neighbors, dog walkers, or construction crews if they’ve seen your pet

 

Tip: Dogs tend to run, while lost cats often hide nearby—check garages, bushes, under decks, or inside sheds.

Step 2 — Contact Local Animal Shelters

Immediately notify local shelters and animal control with your pet’s description, microchip number (if applicable), a recent photo, and your contact info.

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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 and in Your Community

Share your pet’s photo and last known location on these platforms:

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Free Lost Pet Tools:

 

Social Media & Local Apps:

  • Facebook: Arlington VA Lost & Found Pets, Lost & Found Pets DMV

  • Nextdoor: Post in your immediate neighborhood

  • Craigslist: Use the “Lost & Found” section

Step 4 — Update Microchip & Contact Local Vets

If your pet is microchipped, log in to your registry and mark them as lost. Confirm that your contact info is current.

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Also notify nearby veterinary clinics. Many lost pets are brought to vets without tags, and they may scan for a chip.

Step 5 — Make a Flyer and Alert the Community

Include:

  • Clear photo

  • Name, breed, and color

  • Last seen date/location

  • Large phone number

  • Optional: personality note (e.g., “shy” or “friendly”)

  • Reward (optional)

 

Distribute at local vet offices, apartment buildings, coffee shops, and along walking trails.

Step 6 — Notify Your Pet Sitter or Dog Walker

If you're a PS4C client, call or message us right away.
We’ll help contact buildings, shelters, and trusted community partners.

 

stevehongsm@ps4c.net

After They're Found

  • Visit your vet for a post-recovery checkup

  • Double-check your home and yard for potential escape points

  • Update tags or consider a GPS collar

  • Give them time to decompress

  • Reach out for training support if needed

Help When You Need It

If you need guidance or support creating a flyer, contacting shelters, or setting up alerts, we’re here to help.

Share this page with others who may have seen your pet:
petsitting4comfort.com/lost-pet-help

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