If you find or lose a pet, make sure to file a report ASAP.
If you don’t see the animal you’re looking for at the links above, try Petco Love Lost below, which utilizes geolocation and facial recognition technology to match up lost and found pets.
If Your Pet is Lost
- If your pet strays or becomes lost, it’s very important that you FILE A LOST REPORT with Maui Humane Society as soon as possible. Provide as much information as possible about where and when your pet was last seen. You can file online, or call (808) 877-3680 ext. 3.
- Don’t wait! Walk around the neighborhood and speak to your neighbors. Put out food/water and an article of clothing. Visit the shelter to see if your pet is in our custody, and bring proof of ownership in order to reclaim your animal.
- Post a current photo of your pet with your contact information, a detailed description of your pet and any special medical conditions they might have around the area your pet was last seen. How to create a “Lost Pet” Poster
- Keep an eye on our ‘Found Animals’ listings for animals matching your pet’s description. If you see your lost pet listed, call (808) 877-3680 ext. 3 so we can connect you with the person who found your animal.
- Post the same information on Craigslist and Missing Pets of Maui and check your email regularly for responses.
- If you find that your animal has been adopted, you have up to 30 days from intake to reclaim your pet (boarding and care fees may apply).
- For additional resources and recovery tips, visit the Missing Pet Partnership website.
If You Find A Stray Animal
I found a stray animal, what should I do?
If the animal is friendly and you can safely handle them, check for identification and try to find the owner. If you can keep the animal in your home while you search for their owner, file a found report with Maui Humane Society to increase their chances of being reunited with their owner. You can also use social media such as Facebook groups like Missing Pets of Maui to help spread the word about the lost animal. Many animals are microchipped (a form of permanent identification) so you should have the animal scanned for a chip. You can bring the animal to be scanned to any veterinarian or Maui Humane Society can provide this service.
If you decide to bring the animal to Maui Humane Society, we ask that you call in advance so we can ensure someone is available to assist you upon your arrival. While walk-ins are accepted, those with appointments will have first priority.
How long are stray animals held at the shelter?
Because we address each animal as an individual, there are no set time limits for an animal’s stay at the shelter.
In accordance with Maui County Ordinances, stray dogs wearing a current Maui County license will be held for nine days before becoming eligible for adoption. Stray dogs with no ID become eligible for adoption after two days. Stray cats with an ID tracing to an owner will be held for three days before becoming eligible for adoption. Stray cats with no ID become eligible for adoption immediately.
If you choose to have the animal remain in your care, please be a considerate neighbor and do the following:
- File a “Found” report with Maui Humane Society
- Call Humane Enforcement officers (808-877-3680 ext. 222) and notify them you have found an animal.
- Is the animal safe in your custody? Hold onto it!
- Take a look at our ‘Lost Animals’ listings. If you see that the animal has been reported lost, call (808) 877-3680 ext. 3 so we can help coordinate their return.
- Post a “Found” ad in the Craig’s List Lost and Found Pet section and Missing Pets of Maui and upload the pet’s photo to PetcoLoveLost.com
- Walk to neighbors’ houses and ask if the animal belongs to them.
- Post ‘Found’ fliers around the neighborhood
If You Are Surrendering a Pet
Your Pet’s Ticket Home
Providing your pet with proper identification is the key to getting them home quickly and safely. Here’s what you can do:
- Place ID tags on your pets’ collars with current contact information. A phone number will make it possible to reach you quickly.
- Provide your animal with a microchip that can link your pet to your contact information for life.
- Dogs are legally required to be licensed after 4 months of age in Maui County. Licensing can help your dog find their way back to you if he or she strays.
- Keep a current photo of your pet at all times. Providing information about your pet’s breed/mix, approximate weight, and distinguishing features greatly increases the odds of your pet returning home to you.
- Keep your dog properly restrained when out in public, and maintain the fencing in your dog’s holding area.
- Keep cats indoors or in a confined outdoor area for their safety and to preserve local wildlife.
