Public Health Madison & Dane County

Stray Animals

We provide pick up service and assistance with many types of lost, stray, or abandoned animals.

If you find a stray dog, cat, other domestic animal, exotic pet, or livestock, contact our Animal Services office.

Tips if You Find a Stray Pet

• Call Animal Services to report loose or at large dogs or cats.
• If it can be done safely, without you getting bitten or injured, it is helpful if you can confine the animal — possibly in a garage, or fenced in back yard, so it won’t run away before Animal Services get there. 
• Dogs and cats are sometimes wearing collars and identification, which may help you get them back to their home without having to call Animal Services.
  • Call the owner's number listed on the tag. If the animal is wearing a dog license, you can call the City Treasurer if in Madison, (608) 266-4771, or your local town clerk if in a different municipality and ask for the owner’s phone information.
• Pet owners are often times out looking for their lost pet. If it is a dog, the owner may more easily see it if you put it on leash and walk around your neighborhood, or stay out in your front yard if they happen to drive by.
• Pet owners who are at work may not know their dog is missing. If you are willing to hold the dog until 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm, owners may be out looking for their animal then. Also call in the dog’s location and your phone number to Animal Services and the Humane Society. Keep in mind that if you call Animal Serivces too late into the day, we may not be able to get there until the next morning.

Contacts