How to rescue a stray pet

An injured dog lies on the street or a meowing kitten is hidden in the bushes. You know that without your intervention, the animal faces probable death from injury, disease, or starvation. Do you know how to safely perform a rescue pet rescue?

Performing a "rescue" can be incredibly rewarding if it's done safely on an animal likely to be scared for its life. Scared dogs often run and bite, whereas scardy-cats hide, scratch and bite. If possible, wear gloves and approach the stray animal carefully, talking in soothing tones. Try to restrain the pet and get it to the safety of your home, the veterinarian or animal control facility.

To restrain a cat, wrap a towel, blanket or coat around its body, hugging it to your body. A lost or abandoned dog may come to you if called. You can use rope, string, a belt or scarf to improvise a collar or leash.

You must be concerned about rabies - so if the animal is drooling or snarls - call animal control.