What to do when you find a stray

Ever come across a stray dog or cat and wondered what steps you should take to try to save its life? Carrol Baker finds out.

If you found abandoned kittens or an injured dog what would you do? While it’s wonderful to be a Good Samaritan and help an injured animal or lost pet find their way home, before you put on your superhero cape, and zoom in to save the day, there are some important things you need to know.

It’s also important not to jump to the conclusion that the animal you’ve found roaming the streets is unwanted. Some pets will find themselves lost after panicking in a storm or jumping a fence. “If you do find a pet, you do have a responsibility to report it to authorities so they can try to trace the owner,” says Michael.

Stay Safe
A frightened or sick animal can injure themselves or you, so your safety and the safety of the animal should always be your first consideration. Even a cute and cuddly-looking kitten might bite or scratch because it’s frightened. Michael Beatty from RSPCA Queensland advises to not approach an injured or abandoned animal on your own. “Always seek help from an adult first, and never put yourself in danger.”

Secure the Animal
If it’s safe to do so, approach the animal slowly, speaking to them in a calm, soothing voice. “You could also try luring them over with some food and o”er them a drink of water,” adds Michael. When they are close to you, try to restrain the animal with a lead, belt or some rope or, in the case of a kitten or cat, pop them into a cat carrier or box. If, however, you’re unable to capture the animal or it’s behaving aggressively, contact your local animal shelter or the RSPCA for further advice.

Feral or Friendly?
If you find a cat or dog wandering in the bush, don’t assume it’s a family pet, especially if you live in a rural area. That cute-looking kitten may in fact be a feral feline, and the puppy could be a wild dog. If the animal looks friendly and approachable, it probably is a family pet. If not, steer clear and contact your local council for further advice.