Day after day, community WhatsApp groups spring to life with reports of lost or stray dogs roaming the streets and even highways.

Posts are usually accompanied of a grainy picture, a pin-location and words like “I could not stop.”

In many cases, sightings often end in heartache as further posts circulate stating that the animal was struck by a vehicle or fled into wide open spaces and is no longer visible.

Annie Jungmann, of The Animal Guardians (TAG) in Cloverdene, says that it is reasonable that many motorists do not stop when confronted with a scared and disorientated animal roaming the street, thinking that a post on the community group, once they arrived at their destination, will suffice.

“Personal safety is a key concern and often the reason why many motorists do not stop next to the side of the road to help a distressed animal,” she said.

“In most cases, lost animals become disoriented when they are away from their familiar surroundings and may act aggressively when approached by a stranger. This further dissuades community members from becoming too involved in a rescue.”

Here are some tips for ensuring the safety of a lost dog:

• In suburban areas, follow the animal.
In many cases, the animal will likely return to familiar surroundings, which would make it easier to locate their owners and homes.

• Snap a picture of the suspected lost animal and immediately circulate their location.
“The animal could have changed direction or run further from the reported location, if you wait to circulate the information, once you have reached your destination,” said Jungmann.
“This makes rescue operations nearly impossible.”

• Stay with the animal or within its proximity until an animal welfare organisation arrives to capture it and take it to safety.

Numbers to call are:

• Benoni SPCA on 011 894 2814
• TAG on 076 330736

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