Street animals can be very dangerous, always remember that they are probably afraid of you, and if you inadvertently scare them, they can become violent. Follow these steps and your pet will learn to trust you, and it can become meek to the point that you can take it home.
Steps
Step 1. Get the pet's attention
Clicking your tongue, or speaking softly to him, can have its effect. It is essential not to scare him.
Step 2. Approach the animal VERY slowly
Try your best to appear as small as possible and non-threatening, if you can approach it almost from behind, but always be on the alert. Do not kneel, it would be an obstacle in case you have to escape if the animal attacks you. Only approach up to 2-3 meters away.
Step 3. Have the pet come towards you when you are in proximity
Call him in a soft voice, and try to bring him closer. Show him your hand, touch the ground gently, you can also give him some food, possibly from the side and not directly in front of him.
Step 4. Avoid prolonged eye contact
Look sideways instead of staring him directly in the eye. For dogs this is a sign of domination. They interpret it as a challenge and an invitation to fight. Have you ever noticed that even dogs you know well don't look you in the eye for long? Or those cats that look at each other for a long time before a fight. For them it is a sign of challenge, so it is best to avoid it.
Step 5. Reach out your hand to show your back
This is less threatening for most animals, and decreases your chances of getting bitten on the fingers.
Step 6. Observe the animal's body language if it doesn't come close
In the case of cats, it is best to let them get close, they are hunters, but small enough to know the danger of being preyed upon. On the other hand, if it's a dog, you can slowly - very slowly - take SMALL steps towards him if he seems friendly but just shy.
Step 7. Stay calm and slowly back away if a dog growls or bares his teeth
.. or a cat blows you. Do not run away.
Step 8. Stand still if the pet sniffs your hand
Step 9. Let the pet finish his inspection of your hand and then slowly move it towards his shoulder
Do not stroke his head as this scares him, and can cause him to bite. Remember that many animals don't like being touched in certain places on their bodies, so always take your time.
Step 10. Wait for the pet to be quiet to take a look at its tag
Speak to him in a low voice and move slowly to avoid frightening him. If the animal does not have a tag, call the nearest kennel, or a place where the animal can be housed.
Advice
- Never put the animal in a corner. He will feel trapped and will have no choice but to attack you.
- Even if the animal has understood that you do not want to harm him, this does not mean that a sudden movement will not scare him. Remember to move slowly.
- Food is the best way to earn her trust. Start throwing a small piece of food to the side, and not directly in front of him.
- A friendly cat will rub on your hand after sniffing it for a while.
- If he growls at you, don't worry and don't be afraid; animals sense fear and know when you fear them. Then they think they are the boss. Stay calm and relaxed, usually just afraid of you.
- If you can't get to know your pet but are concerned about their safety or life, it's best to call the nearest kennel. They can also give you tips to gain their trust.
- If the animal attacks you, curl up in submission. Many animals only attack when they feel threatened.
- Make sweet sounds to show friendship.
Warnings
- People often do not trust to approach an unknown animal for fear of contracting rabies. But you will likely find that there is no risk of rabies in your region. If you want to adopt a new furry friend, don't be afraid to approach a stray. MAKE SURE you go slow, and when you decide to keep your new friend, take him to the vet right away. You can also think about adopting one from the kennel.
- Be careful not to get bitten, or you can get sick. Do not let children get close to the animal. Pay attention to how you try to gain their trust, so as not to put yourself in danger.
- Make sure the pet is not sick and is properly vaccinated.
- If it's a dog and growls at you or bares its teeth, or if a cat blows you, don't run away. Stay calm and walk away slowly. (We repeat this because it is VERY important!)
- Be very careful when approaching a stray animal. If he's always lived on the street, he may have had bad experiences with humans, and he won't hesitate to attack you if he thinks you're dangerous! If he is domestic, he may have gotten lost and desperate.
