What if I see a loose dog?
Report the sighting to Animal Services as soon as possible. Try to obtain a good description of the dog, the direction of travel and a location where the dog was last seen.

What if I find a lost pet?
Contact Animal Services to report the found pet. If the animal is wearing a City Licence please obtain the year and the number on the tag before you place your call. The owner information can be traced over the phone and the owners can be contacted and advised to contact you to pick up their lost pet. If there is no identification you have the option of holding the pet in your home until the owner contacts us or bring the lost pet to Animal Services.

What if I lose my pet?
Contact Animal Services as soon as possible and make a lost report. Walk the neighbourhood and look for your pet.Supply a photo of your pet if possible. Make sure you can accurately describe your pet. You may also want to post notices in the local veterinarians offices, stores and classifieds.

What if I find a lost cat?
Although we recommend cats stay indoors don't assume outdoor cats are lost. More importantly do not feed outdoor cats.Ask your neighbours about the cat and before you contact Animal Services allow a few days to a week to determine if the cat appears to be in distress. Finally, if you think the cat may be truly lost or abandoned bring the cat to Animal Services.

Do I have to license my indoor pet?
All cats and dogs must be licensed within Mississauga. Unlike veterinary tags or some micro-chips a City Licence can be traced 24 hours a day. Pets can be reunited with owners thru the finder any time day or night. All monies generated by your licences support the Shelter operations.

Can I bring my pet to Animal Services to be spayed or neutered?
Animal Services cannot spay, neuter or provide medical services to the public as we do not have a veterinarian at the shelter and we are not permitted to recommend one veterinarian over another. Find a veterinarian near you.

My neighbour's dog barks constantly. What can I do?
The first action you should take is to politely speak to your neighbour as they may not even be aware that there is a problem. If you cannot resolve the issue in a friendly fashion you can file a complaint with the By-law Dept. 905-896-5655 and they will address the issue with your neighbour.

What if my neighbour has moved and abandoned their pet?
All acts of abandonment, cruelty or abuse must be reported to the OSPCA 1-888-668-7722. If the animal is in immediate distress (it may die within 1- 24 hours), and you cannot contact the available OSPCA Inspector, contact the Peel Regional Police.

I found an injured bird, who should I call?
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator 416-631-0662 and take the bird to them if required. If the bird is in serious distress or suffering badly it should be taken to Animal Services for euthanasia.

What if I have a skunk on my property?
Wildlife removal is currently handled by private animal removal companies you will find them listed in your Yellow Pages under "Pest or Animal Control". For educational information visit the Animal Services website.

When to contact Animal Services:
Adoptions, Lost and Found, Pet Surrender, Pet Euthanasia, Pet Cremations, Bite Quarantine, Volunteer, Foster and Educational Programs
Call: 905-896-5864

To report By-Law infractions (leash, stoop and scoop, dog at large), dog bites, stray or injured animals
Call:905-896-5858

When to contact the OSPCA:
For abandoned, neglected and abused animals including dogs left in hot cars.
Call 1-888-668-7722

When to contact a wildlife rehabilitator:
If you find a wild animal that you think is injured or orphaned - call before you take any action.
Toronto Wildlife Centre 416-631-0662

When to call the by-law department:
For barking dogs
Call 905-896-5655

When to contact the police (Calling the police should be reserved for emergencies only):
For Example: An issue of immediate public safety such as a dog attack in progress or when an animal is in an immediate "life threatening" situation and requires instant action.
Call 905-453-3311

More info