- September 8, 2025
What to Do If Your Pet Is Stolen
Stay Calm and Collect Information
Discovering your pet has been stolen is a devastating experience. At TJS Private Investigations, we know that dogs, cats, and other animals are more than pets—they’re family. Acting quickly is critical, and the first step is to stay calm and gather all the information you can. Write down when and where you last saw your pet, note any suspicious people or vehicles in the area, and collect recent photos and identifying details. The clearer the picture, the stronger your case becomes when you begin your search.
File a Police Report Immediately
The next step is to file a police report. Stolen pets are considered property under the law, and an official report creates a record that can help if your pet is resold or abandoned later. Be sure to include your pet’s breed, microchip number, and any unique physical traits. At TJS Private Investigations, we often work alongside law enforcement to provide additional support during the pet theft investigation process.
Notify Shelters and Veterinary Clinics
You should also notify local animal shelters, rescues, and veterinary clinics right away. Many stolen pets end up abandoned or surrendered, and these organizations are often the first to encounter them. Leave flyers with photos and your contact information. Posting flyers in busy community locations—grocery stores, dog parks, and schools—can also make a difference. Visibility is key in stolen pet recovery efforts.
Use Social Media and Online Marketplaces
Technology plays an essential role in today’s searches. Use social media to post your pet’s information on Facebook groups, Nextdoor, PawBoost, and Instagram. Share widely and encourage others to do the same. Stolen pets sometimes appear on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or other online marketplaces, so setting alerts for your pet’s breed and description can help. At TJS Private Investigations, our team monitors these channels as part of our professional recovery services.
Leverage Microchip Registries
If your pet is microchipped, contact the registry immediately. They can flag your pet as stolen and notify you if anyone tries to change ownership information. This step is often overlooked but can be a powerful safeguard. Combining microchip alerts with proactive online and offline outreach increases your chances of getting your pet back.
About TJS Private Investigations
TJS Private Investigations has been trusted by attorneys, families, and businesses across Texas and beyond. Our team has delivered answers in some of the most sensitive and high-stakes cases—ranging from missing persons investigations to surveillance, infidelity, child custody disputes, and comprehensive background checks.
At TJS, we understand that behind every case is a story of uncertainty, stress, or pain. That’s why we don’t just gather facts—we fight for clarity, justice, and peace of mind. Your pain becomes our purpose, and your justice becomes our relentless mission.
How TJS Private Investigations Can Help with a Stolen Pet
At TJS Private Investigations, we know a stolen pet isn’t just property—it’s family. Since 2012, our team has helped families track down missing and stolen animals through a combination of surveillance, community outreach, law enforcement coordination, and technology-enhanced searches. From reviewing security footage and monitoring online sales platforms to canvassing neighborhoods and working with shelters, we pursue every lead with urgency and compassion. Our mission is simple: to reunite you with your beloved pet and provide the peace of mind you deserve.
Need Help Recovering a Stolen Pet?
If your pet has been stolen, don’t wait. The faster you act, the better your chances of recovery.
👉 Contact TJS Private Investigations today for a confidential consultation.
📞 Call: 833-495-0003
🌐 Visit: tjspi.com
We’ll fight to bring your pet home—because family belongs together.
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