How to Help Homeless Pets

Almost everyone has seen a stray cat or dog wander through their yard. Helping these homeless pets find a safe refuge makes you feel good and of course makes the animal feel good. Be prepared before you take on the task of caring for a stray pet. There are organizations that can help you along the way.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pet crate, large box or leash
• Canned pet food
• Water
• Two bowls for food and water
• Old towels or blankets

1. Approach the animal slowly and with caution. Frightened or injured animals can behave aggressively. If you make sudden moves, the homeless pet might run or bite.

2. Speak calmly and reassuringly to the animal as you approach. Try to restrain the animal in a crate or with a leash. Offer it food to entice it to get closer to you.

3. Place the restrained pet in a confined area out of the way. Give him or her water and some food. Lay down some old towels or blankets for a bed. Let the animal get some rest.

4. Try to find the pet's owner. You can make up flyers and post them around your neighborhood and you can place a "found" ad in the newspaper.

5. Contact your local Humane Society or animal shelter if you cannot care for the homeless pet or you cannot find its owner. Find your local shelters at the Pets911.com website.

6. Arrange for the pet to be transferred to the shelter. Local animal control will probably pick up the animal, but other organizations may ask that you arrange for the pet to be transported to their facility.

Tips & Warnings

• If the animal won't come to you, just leave the food and call the animal shelter to come and pick up the pet.

Resources

• Find your local animal shelters at pets911.com.
• The Humane Society of the United States is an excellent source of pet information.
• Petfinder.com is an excellent source of homeless pet information. You can also post lost and found ads here.

[Soulsearcher83]

on 1/18/2009 Great tips and resources. I feel like a dog magnet sometimes so I do this routinely.