Lost Dogs

All stray dogs picked up by Animal Care & Control Officers are taken to the Franklin County Dog Shelter, located at 1731 Alum Creek Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43207. We also receive many stray dogs turned in by private citizens.
  • If a dog is wearing a current Franklin County dog license, it will be held at the Shelter for up to fourteen (14) days. 

  • By law unlicensed dogs are only held for three (3) days.

Every attempt is made to reunite the lost dog with its owner. After the waiting period, dogs are evaluated for adoption or release to a reputable rescue group.

IF YOU HAVE LOST YOUR DOG, 
THIS IS THE FIRST PLACE YOU SHOULD LOOK!!

If you have lost your dog, visit the Dog Shelter immediately and in person to look for your dog. Due to the large number of dogs received daily at the Shelter, we are unable to positively identify or answer questions about lost dogs over the phone. 

When you come to look for your lost dog, it would be helpful for you to bring proof of a current dog license and rabies immunization for your pet, as well as verification that your dog has been spayed or neutered. If there is no proof of the dog’s rabies vaccination, our veterinary staff will re-immunize the dog before releasing the animal. To claims a lost dog from the Shelter must be eighteen years of age or older and have a valid picture I.D.

Redemption Policy

A one-time $6 impound fee will be charged for altered (spayed or neutered) dogs plus a $1.50 boarding fee PER DAY. A one-time $18 impound fee will be charged for unaltered (have not been spayed or neutered) dogs plus a $4.50 boarding fee PER DAY. If the dog does not have a current license or rabies tag, there will be additional fees. Dogs will not be released without a current license.