How to Rescue Animals

Animals, just like humans, can become victims of a single crisis such as a house fire or a widespread disaster like Hurricane Katrina. The key to helping at-risk animals is preparation. Knowing what to do and how to do it makes things safer for you and the animal. Follow these guidelines on how to rescue animals.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Restrain frightened pets. When frightened, even the friendliest animal may strike out. Wrap a towel around cats for protection against claws. Muzzle dogs with soft material, like a scarf. Never muzzle any animal that is vomiting, unconscious or having seizures.
2. Talk soothingly to animals in your care. It doesn't matter what you say as much as how you say it. A soft, friendly voice accompanied by slow, deliberate movements goes a long way in calming an animal.
3. Be aware of how to put a halter on a horse if you must rescue one. While no untrained person should ever enter a burning building, you may find yourself in a situation where you can rescue a horse from fire by tying a scarf over the horse's eyes to lead him to safety.
4. Handle birds with great care. Many are fragile, although raptors like eagles and owls bite. Birds caught indoors often panic when trying to get free and may hurt themselves. Try to toss a sheet over the bird and quickly remove it outdoors. Gently undo the sheet to free the bird.
5. Wait before jumping to the rescue of a baby animal that doesn't appear hurt. The best option for baby animals is for its mother to rescue it. If you interfere too early, the mother may reject it.
6. Get to know the wildlife rehabilitators in your area. They can be an excellent resource if you find a rabbit with a broken leg or a bird with a broken wing. Additionally, some animals needing rescue are exotic animals that didn't work out as pets.
7. Gain experience in how to handle animals by volunteering at your local animal shelter. Take a course in emergency animal sheltering in order to provide shelter services during times of disaster or crisis.

Tips & Warnings

• Perhaps the greatest rescue is saving animals from cruelty. Contact your local animal control office or ASPCA office to file complaints of cruelty against animals.
• Get training to be an animal disaster responder. FEMA provides independent study programs that will familiarize you with the Incident Command System and Animals in Disaster. Continue training with an animal rescue group. Contact the Humane Society of ASPCA for more information.