Found an Animal?
Found a Pet?
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria takes in stray domestic animals if they are found in the City of Alexandria. Please keep in mind that the City of Alexandria does allow outdoor cats, so if you find a cat outside but it has a collar or identification, it likely lives nearby and does not need our help.
If you have questions about bringing a lost animal to the shelter, please call us at 703-746-4774 during our business hours of 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends, or you can bring the animal in during those hours if you feel comfortable doing so. If you believe the animal is injured, dangerous or presents other emergency circumstances, please call the Police Non-Emergency Hotline at 703-746-4444 to connect with AWLA’s Animal Services as appropriate.
Not All Animals Are Pets
Please be sure that any animal you find is NOT wildlife. Many turtles and rabbits you may find are actually native wildlife, and these animals are best left alone for your and their safety. Learn more about common wildlife you might see HERE.
If you find a baby wild animal, it is likely that a parent is nearby and it doesn’t need your help. If you see that baby without a parent for several hours, then it’s time to consider assistance. You can learn more about baby wild animals HERE. If you think any wild animal in injured or in need or assistance, please call the Police Non-Emergency Hotline at 703-746-4444.