How to approach a stray dog and not to scare it away

Do NOT Call a Panicked Dog!

One of the worst things that you can do is CALL a stray dog or panicked dog! That’s because if too many people have already tried to capture the dog, calling him becomes a “trigger” that can cause him to automatically take off in fear when anyone, including his owner, calls him. Instead, make some type of other noise like clearing your throat or fake a sneeze to alert the dog to your presence. Then look away, which is a submissive gesture. You can even fake like you’re eating food on the ground, and we suggest that you have a baggie of smelly treats like pieces of hot dog or liver treats. Sit down on the ground, or even lay flat on your back and pat your chest. Do anything other than staring straight at your dog while walking towards him! Watch the video below as Missing Pet Partnership Founder Kat Albrecht explains the concept of Calming Signals and demonstrates how to lure a panicked dog to come to you.

http://www.missingpetpartnership.org/recovery-tips/lost-dog-behavior/