What to Do If You Find a Stray Dog or Cat
Finding a stray animal can be emotional and overwhelming—but your actions can make a life-changing difference. Whether the animal is lost, abandoned, or feral, knowing what to do can help keep both you and the pet safe while increasing the chances of a happy reunion or new beginning.
Step 1: Assess the Situation Safely
Before approaching the animal, take a moment to evaluate the environment:
✔ Friendly or Fearful? – A lost pet may be cautious but approachable. A feral animal may be skittish or aggressive.
✔ Check for Injuries – Look for limping, bleeding, or visible distress.
✔ Is the Animal in Danger? – If near traffic or trapped, act quickly but calmly.
✔ Condition Clues – A matted, underweight animal may have been lost for some time.
💡 Never chase a stray. Stay low, use a calm voice, and let them come to you.
Step 2: Secure the Animal (If Safe)
✔ Use Food to Lure – Offer treats, kibble, or cooked chicken to gain trust.
✔ Approach Slowly – Avoid sudden movements. Let the pet sniff your hand.
✔ Use a Leash or Carrier – Gently secure dogs with a leash or slip lead. Use a towel or carrier for cats.
✔ Call for Help If Necessary – If the animal is aggressive or injured, contact your local animal control or shelter.
💡 If you’re unsure, call a local vet or rescue before handling the pet yourself.
Step 3: Check for Identification
✔ Look for a Tag – Call the number if there’s a name tag with contact info.
✔ Get Them Scanned for a Microchip – Most vets, shelters, and pet stores will scan for free.
✔ Post in Online Lost & Found Groups – Use sites like PawBoost, Facebook groups, or Nextdoor.
✔ Make & Post Flyers – Include photos and your contact info in the area where the pet was found.
💡 Include location, date found, clear photos, and any collar or tag descriptions in online posts.
Step 4: Provide Temporary Shelter (If Possible)
If you can care for the animal while searching for the owner:
✔ Set Up a Safe Space – Use a bathroom or spare room to prevent stress and escape.
✔ Offer Basic Needs – Food, fresh water, and a cozy bed.
✔ Keep Separate from Your Pets – Until a vet confirms the stray is healthy.
✔ Observe Their Behavior – Social pets may be lost. Fearful ones could be feral.
💡 If you can’t foster, reach out to a local animal rescue or foster network for help.
Step 5: Visit a Shelter or Vet (If Needed)
✔ Seek Medical Attention for Injuries – Vets or rescues can advise if urgent care is needed.
✔ Bring to a Shelter if You Can’t Keep Them – Most have a stray hold period for owners to claim pets.
✔ Prefer No-Kill Rescues If Overcrowded – Some areas have smaller rescues with better rehoming programs.
💡 Ask about a shelter’s policies before surrendering the pet—some may euthanize after a hold period.
Step 6: Rehome the Pet (If No Owner Found)
If no one claims the pet after several days to weeks:
✔ Adopt If You Can – If you’ve bonded and are able, this may be the best solution.
✔ Rehome Responsibly – Use reputable sites and rescues. Avoid Craigslist or free giveaways.
✔ Screen Adopters Carefully – Ask about their pet experience and living conditions.
✔ Charge a Small Fee – This helps deter irresponsible or unethical adopters.
💡 Do a home visit or virtual call before finalizing any adoption.
Step 7: Help Prevent Future Strays
✔ Promote Microchipping – A tiny chip can make all the difference in reunions.
✔ Support Spay/Neuter Programs – Prevent unwanted litters in your community.
✔ Educate Others – Share resources on responsible pet ownership.
✔ Report Neglect – If you suspect a pet was abandoned or mistreated, notify animal control.
💡 Consider volunteering with a local rescue to support stray animals in need.
Final Thoughts
Helping a stray dog or cat isn’t just kind—it can save a life. By acting safely, spreading the word, and connecting with local resources, you can give a lost pet their best chance at being reunited or rehomed.
