Step 1: Contact the Authorities
• Report the found animal to the Vigili Urbani (local municipal police).
• You can call them or, ideally, go directly to their office — this usually gets the quickest response.
Step 2: Follow Their Instructions
• The Vigili Urbani will often refer you to the ASP (Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale) – this is the local Animal Protection Agency.
• If the animal is injured, ASP will handle immediate veterinary care.
Step 3: Next Steps After Medical Care
• Once stabilized (if necessary), the animal will need a volunteer or responsible person to continue its care.
• This could include temporary fostering, rehoming, or coordinating adoption efforts.
Step 4: Involve Local Support Groups
• Sigonella Animal Welfare Society Inc. (SAWS Inc.) may be able to step in, if:
- They have available funds for medical or basic care.
- They have a foster home open and willing to take the animal.
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Helpful Tips:
• Take photos and note the location where the animal was found. This helps with any legal or shelter paperwork.
• If the animal is friendly and not in immediate danger, keep it in a safe space (like your car or a crate) while you wait for help or coordinate transport.
• Never assume the animal will be taken by authorities right away—follow up if needed.
• No matter how much SAWS wants to help all the animals found and rescued in Sicily, we only have the hands of ourselves and our volunteers. We do not have a shelter, and unfortunately we might have to say no to taking in more animals, if we are at max capacity.
Need Help Navigating the Italian System?
We’re here for you! Contact us at info@pawsofsaws.org for assistance with registration, vet referrals, and community support.