Loose Dog Tips (Rural)

Loose Dog TIPS (Rural)

IF YOU SEE A DOG RUNNING AT LARGE IN RURAL MANITOBA
THINK “LOST” NOT “STRAY”

“running at large”, means that an animal is not;
(a) either on its owner’s property, or on other property with the consent of the owner or occupant;
(b) securely confined in a vehicle or other enclosure; and
(c) securely leashed and in the custody of someone competent to control it;.
THE CITY OF WINNIPEG BY-LAW NO. 92/2013 – Responsible Pet Ownership By-law

  1. Take note of and if possible please record & report the following important details that will aid in getting the dog to safety:

i. The exact location, (rural municipality, town, highway #’s, highway mile marker, street & cross street as well as distinct landmarks) that you see the dog(s) at.

ii. The exact time & date that you see the dog(s).

iii. Direction & speed of travel.

iv. The size, breed, gender, approximate age, and any distinguishable markings on the dog(s).

v. Wearing a collar? Collar type? collar color? Is there a partial leash attached, and/or any visible tags on the collar?

vi. Obvious injuries.

vii. The demeanor of the dog(s). Scared, confused, skittish, aggressive, interested, brave, confident, inquisitive, playful, walking at a normal gait, running, trotting, etc.

  1. Assess the surrounding area for immediate dangers such as traffic, weather.
  2. Try very hard to take a photo for submission to reporting agencies, social media sites.

i.  Use available social media such as Facebook, Twitter, etc, to get the word out fast in case someone is in the area that can help.

  1. Contact the following agency as soon as possible to report it: the local Animal Control Officer

Please do NOT chase the dog(s) under any circumstances.

Think before you act!

 

The problem with our first instinct (to chase) is that it rarely gets us closer to getting them. What is instinctual for us is exactly what is most likely to put the dog in more danger.

If a human was being chased, running away as fast as they could would be their safest option.

Animals have that same instinct and use it often. The decision to run is made in a split second, without any regard for dangers that they do not understand, such a cars & traffic.

HOW YOU CAN HELP THE DOG TO SAFETY

An attempt may be made to lure the dog(s) with food, water, treats, but must be done with the utmost care & forethought.

  • Stay very low to the ground. Do not make eye contact. No sudden or aggressive movements. Excited or aggressive energy will be construed as a threat to the dog(s).
  • Whistling or calling to the dog(s) may trigger a negative reaction and put the dog(s) or you in immediate danger.
  • Talk in a low, calm, soothing voice with one hand outward, palm facing down.
  • Place treats or food directly on the ground in front of you but give the dog(s) a safe space in distance, lessening the distance as time goes by.

Patience is extremely critical in gaining the trust of the dog(s).

If you are able to safely lure the dog and secure it, take it to the nearest Animal Control office, Veterinary Office, Rescue Shelter, or The Winnipeg Humane Society (WHS) during regular business hours.

 


AFTER HOUR VETERINARY CLINICS

clock iconSouthglen Vet   |   204-452-0077  (730 St. Anne’s Rd)

Plessis Vet   |   204-691-8838  (17 – 1783 Plessis Ave.)

Pembina Vet   |   204-452-9427  400 Pembina Hwy (Pembina Veterinary is open 24/7 for emergencies)

The above clinics will accept lost dogs after hours if they have available space for them. During business hours many clinics will also accept lost dogs to their facilities to ensure their safety.[/text_output]


PLEASE BE SAFE!

NOT ALL DOGS ARE FRIENDLY ~ ESPECIALLY WHEN SCARED