Finding a stray dog can be a confusing and emotional experience. One of the first questions you might have is whether or not you should feed the dog. Here are some guidelines to help you make the best decision for the dog's health and safety.

Assessing the Dog’s Condition

Before deciding to feed the dog, assess its condition. Check if the dog appears malnourished or dehydrated. A dog in poor health may need immediate medical attention rather than food. If the dog looks injured or extremely weak, it's best to contact a veterinarian or animal control for assistance.

Do: Provide Basic Care

If the dog appears healthy but hungry, offering some food and water can be a good temporary measure. Use dog food if available, but if not, plain cooked chicken or rice can be a gentle option. Avoid giving the dog anything spicy, fatty or seasoned, as these can cause digestive issues. Providing basic care is important, but knowing where to report a dog that you found is equally crucial.

Don’t: Overfeed or Give Harmful Foods

While it’s natural to want to help a hungry dog, avoid overfeeding, especially if the dog has been without regular meals. Overfeeding can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Additionally, avoid giving dog foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, onions and garlic.

Where to Report a Dog That You Found

It's important to know where to report a dog you found. Contact local animal shelters, veterinary clinics and animal control to notify them of the found dog. Many owners will contact these places first when looking for their lost pets. Additionally, you can post information on local social media groups and lost pet websites. Wondering where to report a dog you found? Click here to help them reunite!

Don't: Delay Seeking Help

While feeding a stray dog is a kind gesture, it’s essential not to delay seeking professional help. The dog’s owner could be frantically searching, and reporting the found dog promptly increases the chances of a swift reunion.

In conclusion, feeding a dog you found can be a compassionate act, but it's crucial to prioritize the dog's overall well-being and take steps to find its owner. By knowing where to report a dog you found and providing appropriate care, you can make a positive difference in the dog's life and potentially reunite it with its family.

Author Resource:-

Jeson Clarke advises people about lost and found pets database, which can increase your chances of a happy reunion. You can find his thoughts at lost pet poster creator blog.