Finding abandoned puppies can be distressing and overwhelming. It’s essential to act quickly and give them the care they need. Here are some important steps to take if you come across abandoned puppies.
1. Observe the puppies
Take a moment to observe the puppies at a distance to see if their mother is around. Sometimes, mothers leave their puppies to find food or water and return to them later. Ensure that you are not too close to the puppies.
If you are too close, the mother might not come back. If you think the mother is coming back, you can come back later to check.
2. Ensure safety
You need to ensure your safety and the puppies’ safety while helping them. Put on gloves, bring a leash, wear proper clothing, and carry a blanket to handle them properly.
Abandoned puppies can be vulnerable and fearful, and they might bite if they sense danger. Safety is vital, and you should not try to hurt them or force them to do something they don’t want to do.
3. Check for injuries and signs of illness
You need to check the puppies for injuries and signs of illness. If they are injured or sick, they may need immediate medical attention. If you are not a veterinarian, take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
If you have any doubts about their well-being, contact a rescue organization or veterinarian who can offer help.
4. Offer food and water
If you have decided to help the puppies, the first thing you should do is offer them food and water. Puppies need to eat every few hours, so they require frequent feeding. You can offer them canned puppy food, warm milk, or a mixture of milk and water.
Ensure the food is not too hot or too cold. Provide them with clean water, and make it accessible to them. Do not force them to eat or drink.
5. Find a rescue organization
If you cannot take care of the puppies, you need to find a rescue organization that can help. Contact your local animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or rescue organization to get help.
Inform them about the puppies’ condition, location, and how long they have been there. They can provide help, care, and shelter for the animals.
6. Provide temporary shelter
If a rescue organization is not available, provide temporary shelter for the puppies. You can use a cardboard box or a pet carrier to keep them safe and warm. Ensure the container is clean, dry, and comfortable.
Keep them away from other pets and animals to prevent the spread of diseases.
7. Socialize the puppies
Puppies need interaction and socialization with humans. Spend time with them, talk to them, and play with them. This interaction is essential for their emotional development, and it can make them more adoptable when they are ready.
8. Get them vaccinated and dewormed
When you take the puppies to a veterinarian, make sure to get them vaccinated and dewormed. This is important for their health and well-being. Vaccines can protect them from diseases, and deworming can eliminate parasites that can be fatal to them.
9. Find them a forever home
Once the puppies are healthy, it’s time to find them a forever home. Contact a rescue organization or a local shelter to get them adopted. Share their story and their pictures on social media to increase their visibility and chances of adoption.
Ensure that the new pet owners have the resources and time to take care of them properly.
10. Don’t abandon them
Abandoned puppies need love, care, and attention. Do not abandon them again. Ensure you take full responsibility for their well-being and provide them with the care they need. This includes food, water, shelter, medical attention, and socialization.
If you cannot do this, find someone who can, or take them to a rescue organization.