How to Best Help a Stray Dog
Have you ever wondered what to do if you come across a stray dog? How you handle the situation can make a big difference in the dog's safety and well-being (and your own!) Here are some simple steps to follow if you ever find yourself in this situation:
Before approaching a stray dog, assess the environment. It's important to consider that not all dogs are friendly, and posting attention to body language can help you determine whether or not it will be safe to interact with a dog. Don't approach a stray dog on your own if it doesn't appear receptive, for your safety and theirs!
If you find a stray near traffic, try to keep a safe distance and direct the dog away from danger if possible, and keep in mind that skittish dogs may run from you. Approach slowly and gently, speaking in a calm voice. Avoid sudden movements that could frighten the dog.
Once you are able to get close to the pupper, assess their overall wellbeing. Note any injuries or other things that might cause the dog discomfort.
Trying to offer some food or water can help to calm them down. Food or treats can be effectively used as a means to get the pup to come near you. This also creates a bond and gives you a chance to observe the dog’s behavior more closely. If a slip leash is available or on hand, this would be the safest way to bring the dog with you if he or she is not injured and unable to walk.
According to Best Friends Animal Society, most lost pets are found less than a mile from home. If you are able to interact with the dog, the next steps are important to help them reunite with their family, if they have one!
If the dog is wearing a collar or ID tag, try to contact the owner. If not, walk or drive the area the dog was found, search “Lost Dog” posts on neighborhood’s message boards on FB or Nextdoor, and knock on doors to see if anyone recognizes the dog.
If you are able to take the dog with you, bring them to a nearby vet’s office to scan for a microchip. If properly registered, the microchip will allow the vet to identify and contact the owners directly and assist in reuniting a dog with its family.
If the initial search for the dog’s family is unsuccessful, continue using the power of social media. Post photos of the dog in local Facebook groups or community apps where neighbors are active and may potentially recognize the dog to help find the owners. This is often an effective way of reuniting pets with their families!
If you are unable to take the dog in yourself, contact a local rescue organization. They can help find the dog a safe place to stay and assist in finding its home. By taking the dog to a rescue, rather than a shelter, you can help increase their chances of either reuniting with their owner (if they have one) or finding a furever home.
While rescues are often volunteer and foster based, shelters depend on capacity for intake. Many shelters are above capacity due to the current pet overpopulation crisis. If they are at capacity, a stray dog may be at risk for euthanasia. In 2022, the Best Friends Animal Society estimated that 378,000 dogs and cats were euthanized in the U.S. with these numbers continuing to increase annually.
