How to Rescue a Stray Dog

Rescuing a stray dog can be one of the most fulfilling things a pet owner can do. However, there are a few things to keep in mind so the transition from the street to the home goes smoothly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• A leash
• Feeding bowl
• Sleeping area

1. First things first: Use caution when approaching the animal. The dog could lash out and bite. This is especially true if the dog is injured. Use food to coax the dog into your car or onto a leash.
2. Take the dog to the vet immediately. Ensure the dog has not contracted any diseases while living outside.
3. Be certain that the dog does not have an owner. Place “Dog Found” flyers around the neighborhood.
4. Introduce the dog slowly to its new environment. Even though a home is a safer environment, the dog may be frightened at first—it will want to go back to what’s familiar.
5. Begin training the dog soon after it arrives home—including housetraining, chewing up the furniture, or biting. The dog may be very eager to learn. Have a sleeping area ready when the dog arrives home.
6. Take the dog on a number of walks on a leash so it gets comfortable with being connected to an owner. You may want to get a muzzle if the dog seems vicious.
7. Feed the dog at regular intervals so it gets used to a routine.

Tips & Warnings

• The adage “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is a myth. It is possible to train a dog that has lived most of its life outdoors.
• Even though you’ll want to be very nice to the dog as it’s coming from a place of hardship, you’ll still have to exercise some discipline when it comes to housetraining and leash training.
• Be mindful of the dog until you are 100% sure it is safe. This is especially true if the dog will be around young children and other pets.