Losing a pet is a nerve-wracking experience! The best way to find your pet, however, is to act quickly. If your pet was lost in or near our service area…

  • First, contact VAO at 856-627-9111 and ask to make a lost pet report. You can also email your information to lost@vaonj.org (include a picture of your pet).
  • Next, visit the shelter to look for your pet in person. More than a thousand animals pass through VAO’s doors each year, so it’s important to visit on a regular basis if your pet is missing. We’re open 12:00-7:00 Monday through Friday, and 12:00-5:00 on weekends.

Tips For Finding A Lost Pet

  • Call your local animal control officer. They’re a good source of information, and often the first place contacted by someone who’s found a pet. Some animal control officers pick up and house stray pets. If so, visit their facility to see if your pet is there.
  • Call local animal shelters. Make sure to supply a phone number where you can be easily reached. This document lists shelters in Camden County and the townships they serve.
  • Call your local police non-emergency number. Officers sometimes pick-up stray animals that are held at the station temporarily. Residents may bring a lost animal to the police station, as well.
  • Post to lost & found animal pages on Facebook or Craigslist, and be sure to include a photo.
  • Hang fliers with your pet’s picture around the area where it was last seen.
  • Contact vets and animal hospitals in case your pet has been injured and brought in.
  • Place a “lost pet” ad in your neighborhood newspaper.

What You Need To Reclaim Your Pet

If we have your pet at VAO we know you’ll be relieved – and anxious to take it home! To reclaim your pet bring as many of these items with you as you can:

  • Current government issued identification with your name and address (driver’s license; state ID, etc)
  • Current vaccination records
  • Current license documents
  • Pictures of your pet
  • Proof of ownership (vaccination records, adoption papers, bill of sale, city license)
  • Note: There is a $50 fee for reclaiming your pet.  We accept cash or credit cards.  An additional $4 will be charged for every night the pet is with us.
  • Do not hesitate to contact VAO at 856-627-9111 if you have any questions.

How To Keep Your Pet Safe

  • Don’t leave your animal unattended for long periods of time. Many pets become lost because they’ve been outside in a yard or enclosure for an extended period, and escape from an unnoticed opening.
  • Always be sure your animal is wearing an appropriate collar with an identification tag and your contact information. If you change your telephone number, make sure you get a new tag for your pet with the updated information!
  • License your dog. Dogs wearing licenses are much more likely to be reunited with their families.
  • Microchip your pet. Most veterinarians and shelters can provide this service at low cost.
  • Secure all outside enclosures where you keep your pet.
  • Never walk your dog off leash.
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