Living
How To Properly Rescue A Stray Animal
Tips to help stray animals like lost cats and dogs find their homes. Such small acts of wellness contribute to a healthy living...
Although it is an act of kindness, saving a homeless animal is not easy. According to recent estimates, more than a million animals are left without homes all over the world every day. Some roam the streets while others are abandoned at shelters; however, these institutions frequently lack both capacity and resources to fully address this problem.
We can help reduce the stray population by rescuing one animal and providing it a loving home. However, before you take in a new furry friend, there are some key points below that you must remember:
Assess the situation before taking any action
Animals who are hurt on the streets may act out if they feel scared or panicky. To prevent this from happening, be careful when you approach them. You can make the animal feel safe by using a cage to take it home or to the vet's office.
Make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible
Please take your animal to the vet if it seems injured, in order to ensure its safety and well-being. If the animal is a dog, please note that a rabies vaccination may also be necessary for your personal safety. When you take your animal to the vet, they will be able to help you understand how to properly care for any injuries as well as what you can expect in the following days. This visit is also a good opportunity to make sure that the animal doesn't have fleas or ticks, which can be treated. In addition, depending on the animal's needs, additional vaccinations may be administered - saving you money down the road.
Some animals need time and space to feel comfortable, so give them that respect
Being in an unknown and possibly dangerous place is very traumatizing for animals. When they are first rescued and taken to their new home, it's natural for them to be aggressive or timid. Give your animal time to adjust to their new environment and surroundings before approaching them. They will eventually come around!
Make sure you understand the seriousness of the responsibility before taking it on
It's easy to get attached to an animal in need and feel the urge to adopt them on the spot, but you must remember that they require lifelong care. Animals form close bonds with their caregiver and home, so it's important to be sure you're ready for such a big responsibility before taking the plunge. Deciding you cannot handle the responsibility of an animal after taking them in is very irresponsible. Before taking such a step, one should always take a while to decide if they are truly capable of taking on this responsibility or not. For someone unable or unwilling to make a long-term commitment, fostering may be the better option.
Get your animal spayed or neutered
You can help reduce the number of animals that end up on the street and in shelters by spaying or neutering your pet. This procedure prevents unwanted litters, which often suffer from abuse and neglect. Spaying or neutering also has health benefits for your pet, including a reduced risk of certain types of cancer.
Most pets can be spayed or neutered as early as six months old. When rescuing an animal, be sure to take precautions so you do not get hurt in the process!
