How to Safely Handle

Guiding You to Safely Approach and Care for Animals

Finding a stray pet can be overwhelming, but your calm and compassionate actions can make all the difference. This guide will help you understand how to safely approach and handle strays, whether they’re fearful and unapproachable or happy and friendly. Every animal reacts differently, so knowing how to read their behavior and respond appropriately is key to ensuring their safety and yours. Let’s work together to give these lost pets the best chance of finding their way back home.

STEP 1 - ASSESS THE SITUATION

Observe from a Distance: Determine if the animal appears approachable or displays signs of aggression or fear. Aggressive behaviors may include growling, bared teeth, or a stiff posture. Fearful animals might cower, tuck their tails, or avoid eye contact.
Avoid Direct Eye Contact: Staring can be perceived as a threat. Instead, keep your gaze soft and avert your eyes occasionally.

STEP 2 - APPROACH WITH CAUTION

Move Slowly and Speak Softly: Approach the animal calmly, using a gentle voice to avoid startling it. Sudden movements or loud noises can cause the animal to flee or become defensive.
Offer Food as an Incentive: If available, use food to encourage the animal to come closer. Place the food on the ground and step back to allow the animal to approach it.

STEP 3 - ENSURE PERSONAL SAFETY

Avoid Cornering the Animal: Ensure the animal has an escape route to prevent it from feeling trapped, which could lead to defensive aggression.
Use Protective Gear if Necessary: When handling unfamiliar cats or kittens, wear bite-resistant gloves to protect yourself.

STEP 4 - SECURE THE ANIMAL

Use a Leash or Carrier: If the animal is approachable, use a leash for dogs or a carrier for cats to secure them safely. For unapproachable cats, consider using a humane trap.
Transport Safely: Once secured, transport the animal to a local animal shelter or veterinary clinic to check for identification, such as a microchip.

STEP 5 - AVOID RISKS

Do Not Chase: Chasing can cause the animal to run into dangerous situations, like traffic, or increase its stress levels.
Seek Professional Assistance: If the animal shows signs of aggression or you feel unsafe, contact local animal control or a rescue organization for help.

FEARFUL

Unapproachable

Animals displaying fear or distress require patience and caution to ensure their safety and yours.

Approach with Caution:

Do not rush or make sudden movements; stay calm and quiet.
Avoid direct eye contact, which can appear threatening.
Speak softly and crouch to their level, minimizing intimidation.

Observe Body Language:

Look for signs of fear (tucked tail, growling, wide eyes).
Avoid trying to touch them if they show aggression or retreat.

Use Food to Build Trust:

Place food or water nearby and step back to give space.
Allow them to approach on their terms, showing you’re not a threat.

Contact Local Authorities or Professionals:

If the dog remains unapproachable, contact animal control, a rescue, or a vet to assist with safe capture.

HESITANT

But Approachable

These animals may show curiosity but are still unsure.

Move Slowly and Gently:

Extend your hand slowly for them to sniff, palm down to avoid startling.
Allow them to decide when to approach you.

Encourage with Treats or Food:

Use soft, small treats to coax them closer.
Sit or kneel to appear less intimidating while offering the food.

Use a Slip Lead or Leash if Possible:

If they seem comfortable, gently loop a leash around their neck without sudden movements.
Avoid chasing them if they back away; give them time.

HAPPY

Approachable

Some animals are eager for attention and show friendliness.

Assess Their Behavior:

Look for relaxed body language (wagging tail, ears up, approaching you willingly).
Speak in a cheerful, calm tone to reinforce trust.

Safely Secure Them:

Use a leash or a piece of fabric as a makeshift lead to prevent them from wandering further.
Check for ID tags or contact details on their collar.

Keep Them Calm:

Avoid overstimulation by staying calm and guiding them to a safe, quiet area.
Offer water and food while waiting to assess their microchip or contact their owner.

General Safety Tips

- Avoid Physical Restraint:
  - Never grab or corner a stray. This can escalate fear or aggression. Use tools like leashes or slip leads to secure them gently.
- Stay Alert to Surroundings:
  - Ensure your environment is safe and free from potential hazards (e.g., traffic, other animals) before engaging with the stray.
- Do Not Assume Health Status:
  - Strays may carry diseases or parasites. Avoid contact with open wounds and wash hands thoroughly after handling.
- Minimize Noise:
  - Loud sounds or sudden movements can scare strays. Speak in a soft, calming tone and avoid shouting or clapping.
- Keep Distance from Aggressive Strays:
  - If the animal shows aggression, do not approach. Use food or treats to lure them into a safe, enclosed area and contact professionals for assistance.
- Avoid Eye-Level Contact:
  - Getting too close to a stray’s face can be intimidating or provoke defensive behavior. Stay at a safe distance until they show trust.
- Transport Safely:
  - Use a secure carrier or crate if possible. If transporting in a vehicle, keep them contained to prevent accidents.
- Check for Immediate Injuries:
  - Observe from a distance for visible injuries or signs of distress. If injured, call a vet or local rescue for guidance before handling.
- Protect Yourself and Others:
  - Carry gloves, a leash, and a blanket or towel in your car for unexpected situations. These items can help you handle and secure the animal safely.
- Document the Situation:
- Take photos and note the location where the stray was found. This information will be helpful for reuniting the pet with their family.
- Stay Calm and Patient:
- Animals sense your energy. Remaining calm and patient can help diffuse tension and encourage trust.

By following these tips, you can safely and effectively assist a stray while minimizing risks for everyone involved.

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