Animals are easy to love. They're beautiful, majestic, and loyal. Unfortunately, many stray animals in the world don't get the care they need. Coming across an injured stray can be heartbreaking. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways you can help. Here are four things you should do if you find an injured stray animal:
1. Protect yourself first and foremost.
Stray animals are unpredictable. Some may be runaways, but others might be feral animals who have not been socialized by humans. All animals are more likely to bite when they're stressed and hurt. Before interacting with a stray animal, remember to protect yourself. Don't get too close if the animal is displaying signs of aggression. If you must pick up the animal for transport, use a thick towel to protect your arms from bites and scratches.
2. Call a local animal hospital.
Look up the number for a local animal hospital and give them a call. They will be able to provide some assistance over the phone. When you speak to a veterinarian or nurse, describe the animal's condition. They may ask additional questions, so feel free to investigate the animal to find the necessary information as long as doing so does not put you at risk. The veterinarian can let you know if they think the animal you found requires medical assistance.
3. Transport the animal to the animal hospital, if necessary.
If the animal requires medical attention, you'll have to get them to the animal hospital. If you have an appropriately sized crate, you can try baiting it with food to lure the animal inside. If you don't have a crate, bundle the animal in blankets and put them in the backseat of your car. If the animal is agitated when you arrive at the animal hospital, leave them in your car while you go inside to check in and alert the animal hospital staff to the situation.
4. Consider paying for the animal's care.
Most animal hospitals have limited resources that can be used to treat strays at their discretion. Whether or not an animal will be treated depends on their overall age and condition, which determines how adoptable they are. If you're concerned for the animal you found, consider paying for their care. You can choose to wait for the vet to complete their assessment of the animal's condition and decide how to proceed from there. If you choose to be responsible for the animal, you can leave your phone number on file at the animal hospital. Workers will call you with any pertinent updates.
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