Each year, thousands of lost and stray animals are brought to HSSM. Sadly, we are only able to contact a small percentage of owners. HSSM will hold stray animals for a period of five days to allow owners to claim them, in accordance with Mississippi law. After five days, the animal becomes the legal property of HSSM and will be tested to determine its suitability for adoption. If you have a lost pet, come look for it at HSSM no more than four days from the last time you saw it, and continue to look for it in intervals of less than five days.

Microchipping greatly increases a lost or stolen pet’s chance of being reunited with their owner and is available at HSSM for a low one-time fee. Drop by our Surrender department during normal business hours to have your pet microchipped. It takes just moments and no appointment is necessary. It’s safe, easy, affordable, and the best way to protect your pet.

Microchipping Fee $15.00

For Surrender Department hours of operation, click here.

Because each and every animal brought to the shelter requires costly care and services, there are fees associated with claiming a lost pet. These fees are in addition to any penalties assessed by law enforcement officers who brought your animal in. Many of these fees are discounted if the owner requests lifesaving spay/neuter surgery and/or microchipping before taking their pet home.

The return-to-owner fees are as follows:

Spayed/Neutered Pet with Existing Microchip $30.00

Spayed/Neutered Pet with Request for Microchip $45.00

Spayed/Neutered Pet with No Microchip $50.00

Intact Pet with Existing Microchip and Request for Spay/Neuter $65.00

Intact Pet with Requests for Microchip and Spay/Neuter $75.00

Intact Pet with Existing Microchip $90.00

Intact Pet with Request for Microchip $100.00

Intact Pet $120.00