Stray Pets
Most cases of stray animals will be dogs or cats. On rare occasions we get rabbits, birds or other exotics (lizards, etc).
Dogs-If you encounter a stray dog, you can attempt to apporach it slowly. If it runs, do not chase after it. Watch it from a distance and call animal control or your local non emergency police. If you are able to safely capture and contain it, do not feed it but it is ok to give it water. In cases of stray dogs, feeding them too much too soon can result in something called refeeding syndrome. This occurs when the body breaks down the food too fast resulting in an overload in the body.
Call your local animal control or non emergency police for transport to the shelter. Once picked up, it will be transported to the shelter where it will be evaluated for medical needs and an attempt made to connect with the owner.
Cats- If you encounter a stray cat, you can attempt to approach it slowly. If it runs, do not chase after it. Watch it from a distance and call animal control or your local non emergency police. If you are able to safely capture and contain it, do not feed it but it is ok to give it water. Cats are usually more skittish and harder to catch. You can try putting out a small bit of food during the day and monitoring if the cat comes back. To prevent wildlife from stealing it, place it only during daylight hours. This can build trust and allow it to be captured.
Call your local animal control or non emergency police for transport to the shelter. Once picked up, it will be transported to the shelter where it will be evaluated for medical needs and an attempt made to connect with the owner.