How to Quickly Catch a Stray Dog

When we find ourselves busy in our daily life, sometimes things just happen. This includes that every once in a while we come across a stray dog that needs our help to find their owner. Taking a minute to help a stray dog is rewarding and if you are a dog owner yourself, something you would want another individual to do for your dog. Here are the steps to catch a stray dog.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide if your stray dog is friendly enough to catch or if you should call animal control. Stray dogs that are injured should be caught by professionals as the dog is unpredictable.

2. If the dog looks okay and you decide to catch the dog, get out some dog treats. To get close to an unfamiliar animal, you will need some incentive so a few treats should do the trick. Start by throwing a few close to the dog and gradually bring the dog closer by having the treats closer to you.

3. Once the dog is close enough, slip the leash around the dogs neck and slightly tighten. Usually, domesticated animals won't have a problem with a leash, once it is on. After this step is complete, build trust by handing over another dog treat.

4. Kennel the dog or tie the dog up so you can see if the animal has tags. If so, contact the owner immediately (they will be so glad to hear from you.) If not, you need to decide if you want to watch the dog while you look for the owner or if you should take it to the vet for a microchip scan or the animal shelter to turn it in. All in all you need to find the owner and the clues are with the dog.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use caution with animals that aren't your pets. Sometimes dogs get spooked and will response out of character due to a strange environment or feeling threatened.

[blindsquirrel]

on 8/15/2009 Nice to know other folks who rescue strays. I keep a small packet of sample dog food, available at the pet food stores, in my car. Handy when needed quickly on the road. If they are stray for long they're hungry.