Everyday there is something to be noticed regarding the already inexhaustible problem of the world's growing pet population. Whether an international foundation on television speaks to your heart, or you simply find a cat or dog on the side of the road, there are precautions to consider before bringing an unfamiliar animal into your care.
Side-of-the-Road Savvy
Picking up stray animals off of the side of any road should always be approached with caution. A tender human heart wanting to help or protect an innocent animal is often not enough to assure the safety of the animal or the person. Proper pet rescuing needs a discerning eye. Questions like these should be considered: Is the animal visibly injured or scared? Is there evidence of other litter mates or parents around? Is behavior erratic or unusual? Do I have a secured measure of transporting such as a covered box or crate? Once you have the proper supplies, approaching the animal should be done cautiously.
The Downside of Strays
Stray animals sadly are everywhere. Often, these creatures are on the hunt for either food, shelter, or a place to die due to disease or injury. Depending on the circumstance it is difficult to tell what the animal's needs are simply by looking. Picking up strays always runs the risk of health concerns and domestication. Many stray animals are met with debilitating problems such as heart worms and mange. Many females are often pregnant, so you may want to consider talking to a Willoughby neutering service after the babies are born and given away. If money is little-to-no-object, be prepared for handling expensive and often ongoing costs of health care.
Missing or Lost Pets
New owners of stray animals should be aware there are times when strays are not actually strays at all, but simply pets which have simply lost their way from good homes. Being able to save an animal or lost pet is its own reward. New owners of strays need to make sure all efforts to return pets to original owners have been exhausted before deciding to keep them.
Love and compassion between man and beast have funny ways of just happening when the hearts of an animal in need and a caring human being come together. It can also be a very exciting time when a cat or dog finds you, instead of the other way around. Stray animals can make wonderful family pet additions. By giving your stray all the medical attention, food and shelter needed, a happy life with your stray can truly begin.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She has lived and worked in her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico after her graduation from the University of New Mexico. Contact her via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.”
