The Golden Valley Police Department (GVPD) and its Community Service Officers (CSOs) play an integral role in reuniting lost pets with their owners and ensuring the well-being of animals in the community.

In 2024, the GVPD took in 32 dogs, 13 cats, and one rabbit. The department reunited 10 dogs, two cats, and one rabbit with their owners. It also handled five deceased cats with compassionate care, scanning for microchips and notifying owners when possible.

“We look after the safety and welfare of all animals,” says CSO Loreen Mills. “We don’t shy away from rescuing lost or injured animals, because their lives are important, too.” 

Success Stories

According to Mills, the GVPD’s efforts to reconnect missing pets or strays with their owners has led to some heartwarming reunions.

• Two stray kittens found warming themselves under a dryer vent were adopted by a local resident.
• A dog injured on Hwy 55 was taken to Blue Pearl Pet Hospital, where its microchip helped reunite it with its overjoyed owner, who had just returned from a trip.
• An American bull terrier was reunited with its owner in Plymouth, thanks to an old rabies tag with a phone number.

“While they’re held here, we give them the best care we can. We do get attached sometimes,” Mills admitted, recalling a dog abandoned in a parking lot that ended up being adopted by another CSO.

Protocol For Missing Or Stray Pets

The City posts photos and descriptions of impounded pets on its website and social media. CSOs also cross-check local lost pet sites to help track down owners. After seven to 10 days in impound, the pets are surrendered to the Animal Humane Society in Golden Valley.

Feral cats present a unique challenge, says Mills. Adult feral cats are typically unsocialized and should remain in their environment. Feral kittens, on the other hand, can be surrendered for adoption.

If You Find A Missing Or Stray Pet

Residents are urged to keep lost animals in the city where they are found, as the GVPD will not take in animals from other cities. When an animal found in one city is brought into another, it makes it harder for owners to reconnect with their pet.

The GVPD does not accept animals surrendered by owners who no longer want their pets, since animals are considered personal property. Owners must seek alternative care options themselves.  

To report a stray or missing pet, contact the GVPD at 763-593-8079 or email police@goldenvalleymn.gov with the animal's description and general location. Additionally, notify local animal shelters and impound facilities.

The GVPD recognizes the diligence and compassion its CSOs bring to this work on behalf of the community. "I’m so happy to have an opportunity to highlight the heartfelt and at times dangerous work our CSOs are doing as part of animal control," said Assistant Police Chief Alice White.

More information at www.goldenvalleymn.gov/284/Missing-Stray-Pets.

Tips For Pet Owners

• Microchipping, even for indoor pets, and keeping information current can drastically shorten the time it takes to reunite a missing pet. 
• Spaying or neutering your pet reduces their urge to roam.
• Keep rabies vaccinations current, especially since dog bites remain a serious issue. 
• Follow leash laws—it's important to keep dogs leashed and under control at all times (with the exception of off-leash dog parks). In 2024, nine people were bitten by loose dogs in Golden Valley. These cases caused repercussions for both owners and their pets.