Found a Pet with a Tag? Here's What to Do
You've done a kind thing. Here's how to get this pet home fast.
If you've found a dog or cat wearing a GPR QR tag, scan the code with your phone camera or tap it with NFC — no app needed. This instantly alerts the owner through GPR's 24/7 reunion team. You'll be connected within minutes. Here's the full process.
Step 1: Scan the Tag
Three ways to read the GPR tag — any one of them works
Using QR Code
Open your phone's camera app. Point it at the QR code on the tag. Tap the notification that appears. Works on any iPhone or Android.
Using NFC
Tap the back of your phone against the centre of the tag. A notification will appear — tap it. Works on iPhone 7+ and most Android phones.
Tag Won't Scan?
Try the other method first. If both fail, the tag may be damaged — see the FAQ below for what to do next.
What Happens After You Scan
Three steps from scan to reunion — usually in under an hour
You share your location
The GPR page asks where you found the pet. You can add a message for the owner. No account needed.
GPR alerts the owner
Our 24/7 team immediately contacts the registered owner with your location details. Most owners are reached within minutes.
You're connected
The owner will contact you to arrange collection. GPR stays available if you need support. Most reunions happen in under an hour.
Found a Pet Without a GPR Tag?
Not every lost pet has a QR tag — here's what to do if there's no GPR tag on the animal.
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Take them to any local vet — free microchip scan, no appointment needed
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Contact your local council — legally responsible for stray dogs; will hold for 7 days
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Post on Nextdoor and local Facebook groups with a clear photo
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Check Doglost.co.uk and Lostcat.co.uk — owners post missing pets there
If you're a pet owner yourself, a GPR QR tag means anyone who finds your pet can reach you in minutes — no scanner, no vet visit, no waiting. Every second counts.
Protect Your Own Pet
Give your pet the same chance of a fast reunion. A GPR tag means any finder — anywhere in the world — can alert you in minutes.
Works on any smartphone. No app. No personal details on the tag. Just fast, private reunions — 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from people who've found a lost pet
What do I do if the pet has no tag at all? +
If the pet has no ID tag or microchip tag, take them to the nearest vet or rescue centre — they can scan for a microchip free of charge. Also contact your local council, which is legally responsible for collecting stray dogs. Post clear photos on Nextdoor, local Facebook groups, and sites like Doglost.co.uk or Lostcat.co.uk. Keep the pet safe and warm while you search for the owner.
Will the owner be able to see my address or phone number? +
No. GPR acts as an intermediary. When you scan the tag and submit your location, our team contacts the owner with details of where the pet was found. The owner then chooses how to make contact — your personal details are never shared without your consent. You can communicate through the GPR team until you're both comfortable making direct contact.
What if the tag doesn't scan? +
Try the NFC option first — tap the back of your phone against the tag rather than using the camera. If the NFC tap doesn't work either, the tag may be damaged. In that case, treat the pet as untagged: take them to a local vet to scan for a microchip, contact your council, and post on local social media. If you can read any numbers on the tag, note them down — they may help GPR trace the registration manually.
Can I keep the pet while waiting for the owner? +
In England and Wales, you are legally required to report a found stray dog to your local council within 24 hours — but you can request to keep the dog as a temporary carer while they locate the owner. For cats, there is no equivalent legal requirement, but informing your local council and vets is strongly advised. In either case, keep the pet safe, fed, and separated from your own animals until the owner is found.
Should I take a found pet to the vet? +
Yes, if the pet appears injured, unwell, or very distressed. A vet can scan the microchip, provide emergency care, and help trace the owner. For a healthy animal that just appears lost, scanning the GPR tag is the fastest route to reunion. Most vets will scan microchips for free and keep a note in case the owner calls.
What if the owner can't be reached? +
GPR will make repeated attempts to reach the registered owner by all available contact methods. If the owner cannot be reached within a reasonable period, GPR will advise you on next steps, which may include contacting local rescue organisations. In the meantime, continue to care for the pet and keep GPR updated on its condition and your availability.
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