If you have lost a pet or have found one running loose, steps should be taken for the safety of the animal as well as the public. An animal running free is in danger. It could be hit by a car, consume discarded and potentially dangerous foods or trash, or be injured.

Pet owners are liable for their pet’s actions. You can prevent your pet from causing injury or damage only if they are confined to your property and controlled as required by law. Failure to do so is a violation of Newport Beach Municipal Code and could result in fines or impounding of the animal.

To report a lost or found animal, contact the Police Department’s Animal Control Unit. You will be asked to provide a description of the animal along with any identification it is wearing. The phone number is 644-3717.

If you find a lost animal, local newspapers will run a free “found” advertisement. Stray animals turned over to the Animal Control Unit are held for 5 days at the Animal Shelter before they are offered for adoption.