I have found a dog, a cat or a wild animal
What to do when you find an animal, who to contact and how to look for the owner.
Finding a dog, a cat or a wild animal
If you come across an animal in the street or in the countryside that appears lost, injured or helpless, please follow the guidance below.
An important note about cats!
Not every cat in the street needs rescuing. Adult cats are usually used to living outdoors, or are simply roaming near their home, and there is no need to catch them. Call the animal capture service or the municipal police mainly if the cat is visibly injured, if the animal's life is in danger, or if it is an abandoned, helpless kitten.
Recommended steps when you find a dog or a cat
- Stay calm: Do not run and do not frighten the animal.
- Assess the situation: If the animal is safe (it is not endangering traffic and is not in immediate danger), leave it where it is.
- Contact the operations centre: Call 353 153 911 or 156. Describe the exact location, the species and the animal's current condition (whether it is injured, whether it is a kitten, and so on).
- Wait at the scene: If possible, wait until the animal capture service or a municipal police patrol arrives.
If the pet is visibly injured
If you find a seriously injured animal, contact the nearest vet directly or let us know immediately on the numbers above. The Karlovy Vary Municipal Police will arrange transport, but the veterinary treatment itself is provided by private veterinary clinics.
Recommended steps when you find a wild animal
If you come across a wild animal (for example deer, a wild boar, a fox or a bird of prey):
- Contact the police: Call the Municipal Police (156) or the Police of the Czech Republic (158).
- Do not touch the animal: Do not handle wild animals and do not try to catch them.
- Keep your pets away: Keep your pets (especially dogs) at a safe distance so that neither animal is injured and no disease is passed on.