From a purely legal perspective, found domestic and pet animals are considered "lost property." This means that local authorities are responsible for handling them. They must accept found animals and provide them with species-appropriate accommodation.

The authority responsible for lost property therefore usually hands over the found animals to a suitable place, such as an animal shelter.

If free-roaming animals pose a threat to public safety, especially traffic safety, you should immediately notify the police.

If you have found an animal, contact your local authority. You can report the find there and, after consultation, hand in the animal. As the authority responsible for lost property, the local authority will then usually take care of the animal's further accommodation and care.

You can also take the animal directly to an animal shelter without reporting it to the local authority. In this case, the animal shelter will take care of reporting the find.

Animal welfare organizations and animal shelters play an important role in society in this area. They are always grateful for donations that benefit the animals. If you are interested in getting a pet, you can contact an animal shelter. They will also provide you with expert advice.

Section 3(3) of the Animal Welfare Act (TierSchG)
Section 965 of the Civil Code (BGB)

If applicable, lost property report form from the municipality

There are no fees.