You’re walking to your car and you see a dog wandering alone, no collar, eyes wide. Or a cat huddled under a bush, skinny and scared. What do you do?
Most people feel the urge to help but aren’t sure how. This guide walks you through exactly what to do — and what not to do — when you encounter a stray animal.
Step 1: Assess the Situation Safely
Before approaching, take a moment to observe. Is the animal injured? Is it acting aggressive or fearful? A frightened animal can bite or scratch even if it’s normally friendly — this isn’t a reflection of its character, it’s a survival response.
Do:
- Move slowly and speak in a calm, low voice
- Crouch down to appear less threatening
- Let the animal approach you if possible
Don’t:
- Run toward the animal
- Make direct, intense eye contact, which can feel threatening
- Corner the animal against a wall or fence
Step 2: Check for Identification
If you’re able to safely get close, check for a collar with ID tags. Take a photo — even without tags, the photo will help you if you need to make a found animal report.
Many animals are microchipped. Any vet or animal shelter can scan for a microchip for free.
Step 3: Contain the Animal If Possible
If the animal is approachable and in danger (on a busy road, for instance), try to safely contain it in your car, a fenced yard, or a carrier if you have one.
Use food to coax a cautious animal — most strays respond well to treats or even a small piece of food from your lunch.
Step 4: Call for Help
- Local animal control: They can pick up strays, scan for chips, and hold animals safely
- Local rescue organizations: Many have volunteers who respond to stray calls
- Vets: If the animal is injured, an emergency vet is the priority
Keep the ASPCA’s national hotline in your contacts: 1-888-426-4435
Step 5: Spread the Word
Post on local Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and apps like PawBoost with clear photos. Many reunions happen through social media faster than through official channels.
Check local lost pet listings to see if anyone has reported a missing animal matching the description.
What If You Can’t Take the Animal In?
You don’t have to bring every stray home. Calling animal control or a rescue organization is still helping. Leaving food and water while you wait for help to arrive is still helping. Staying with the animal until a rescuer arrives is still helping.
You don’t have to do everything. You just have to do something.
A Note on Feral Cats
Feral cats (born wild, with no socialization to humans) are different from stray domestic cats. Feral cats are generally not suitable for adoption and are best managed through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. Contact a local cat rescue for guidance.
Knowing what to do in the moment can be the difference between life and death for a stray animal. Save this guide — and share it with someone who might need it.