Missing & Stolen Livestock
For more information, contact program staff.
How to report missing or stolen livestock
When you believe that your livestock are missing and possible stolen you should immediately file a report with your local law enforcement and the Livestock Identification Program (WSDA Brand Inspector or Olympia). In this report, you will be asked to describe your missing animal in as much detail as possible. Make sure to note any distinctive markings, including brands that your animal may have as well as other details of the loss.
Upon receiving your missing and stolen information, the WSDA will distribute your written report to inspection staff statewide as well as other out of state contacts.
In most cases the ownership of livestock can be easily traced if the animal has a clear, readable Washington State recorded brand. Ownership of unbranded animals is often difficult to determine.
How to report at large / stray livestock
If livestock (cattle or horses) stray onto your property and you are unable to locate the owner, contact your local law enforcement, county animal control officer and/or brand inspector as soon as possible.
Contrary to popular belief, the law does not allow you to "keep" livestock if you can not locate the owner.
After filing the stray report, arrangements will be made to have the animal removed from your property. You may be reimbursed for "reasonable" feed expenses starting on the day you filed the stray report and continuing until the animal is removed. Additional expenses you may incur while the animal is in your possession, such as worming, trimming of feet, etc. are not reimbursable.
After the animal is removed additional investigation will be done to identify the owner, including research of any brands the animal may have as well as ear tags, vaccination tags, etc. In addition an advertisement will be placed in a newspaper located in the area the animal was found.
When an individual comes forward to claim the animal, valid proof of ownership must be submitted before the animal is released.
If you feel the livestock have caused damage to your property, you may retain custody of the animals until such time as these damages have been paid. For more information on damage reimbursement refer to RCW 16.04.