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ARF Humane Society of Jackson County is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners in Jackson County, NC.

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Found a Lost or Stray Dog?

If you've come across a loose dog, thank you for looking out for them. A few simple steps can often help reunite them with their owner quickly and safely.

Start With the Basics

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Check for a collar, tag, or any visible contact information.
If it's safe, secure the dog to prevent it from wandering further.
Local law requires dogs to wear rabies tags in public, and the tag issuer may be able to help identify the owner.
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The Jackson County Animal Shelter Sells Custom Pet ID tags for only $8!

Check for a Microchip

Take the dog to a local vet or the Jackson County Animal Shelter to be scanned for a microchip. (This is a free service.)
Many dogs who have been spayed or neutered may have a microchip with their owner's information.

Know Your Area

Outside of Sylva city limits, Jackson County does not have leash laws.
Lost dogs usually stay close to home. Studies show that 60% of lost dogs reunited through
Some dogs are allowed to roam and may simply be out exploring.
In many cases, these dogs will return home on their own. 

Next Steps to Help Reunite a Pet

If you're able to safely hold onto the dog, these steps can greatly increase the chances of finding their owner:​

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Check with the Shelter

Call the Jackson County Animal Shelter at 828-586-6138 to see if anyone has reported a lost dog matching this description.​

Spread the Word Locally

Post clear photos and details on Facebooks groups such as:​

  • WNC Pet Connect - rehome, adopt, lost, found

  • We Love Sylva

  • Lost & Found Pets of WNC

  • Jackson County, NC Lost & Found Pets

Report Found Pets on Petco Love Lost

If you’ve found a dog, post them on Petco Love Lost. This free service uses photo-matching technology to help reunite lost pets with their owners. Just upload a photo and basic details to help increase the chances of a quick reunion.

Create a Flyer

Use www.lostmydoggie.com to create a free "Found Dog" flyer. The flyer will automatically be shared with local shelters, vets, and rescues.

Important to Know

  • The Jackson County Animal Shelter can only accept stray animals when kennel space is available. 

  • If you take in a stray and the shelter is full, you may need to care for the dog indefinitely until space is available or the owner is found.

Thank you for helping a lost dog find their way home. Your time and care can make all the difference!

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