Reclaiming an Animal

It is our mission to reunite lost pets with their rightful owners. In order to do this, the owner of the animal must come to the shelter in person and bring their government-issued photo ID.

If an owner needs to make arrangements for someone other than themselves to pick up the animal, please contact us ahead of time with this information. Please note that persons reclaiming animals must be at least 18 years or older (our Claim Agreements are legal documents that require the signatures of an adult.)

How long do I have to pick up my animal?

The Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter is not a boarding facility. Lost/stray animals are held for a maximum of 72 hours to be reclaimed by their owners. Any animal that remains in our care after said 72 hours will be evaluated by our trained staff and will be placed up for adoption.

What do I need in order to pick up my animal?

A government-issued photo ID.
Proof of ownership – photos, veterinary records, etc.
Rabies Vaccination Certificate, if applicable.
Your form of payment – we accept cash, debit cards, or credit cards, excluding American Express.

What will it cost to pick up my animal?

Fees will vary by situation and by the animal. If you know your pet is being held as a stray, please contact the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter directly for your exact claim-out costs. A general fee structure can be found below.

Dog Reclaim Fees

Thanks to our 2023 Program, Project Reunite, YVAS is able to waive boarding/vaccine fees that owners otherwise would have to pay for! The only fee is a city license. Read more about project Reunite HERE

City License – We are required to sell a City license. Please click here for detailed licensing costs. If your animal has a current license we can look it up when you arrive

Cat Reclaim Fees

Thanks to our 2023 Program, Project Reunite, YVAS is able to waive boarding/vaccine fees that owners otherwise would have to pay for! The only fee is a city license. Read more about project Reunite HERE

City License – We are required to sell a City license. Please click here for detailed licensing costs. If your animal has a current license we can look it up when you arrive.

Lost & Found Pets

ID TAGS & MICROCHIPPING