'Has anyone seen the animal rescue shows'

Angel (169.244.70.147) -

How do people that save pets not get hurt it must be hard.....NOT GETTING BIT....POST A COMMENT

Comment #1 brat02026 from MA -

Training, experience and what most call 'common sense', this is what keeps me from getting bit or scratched. I have different approaches for different scenarios. For example, I am about 5'8" at 250 lbs. I've big chest and shoulders. Most animals perceive this as a threat. I approach sideways to minimize my size. I don't do that 'happy dog' voice because it would probaby freak them out. Most cases, I don't say anything at all. If I do, I am just calm, use a lot of patience and a soft-spoken voice. I've seen some of the worst dogs and some of the worst situations. It's fair to say they are more scared than I. You've heard that you try not to make eye contact..., which is true unless you feel the animal is very fearful or may come forward, it's important to then keep eye contact to 'read' the animal. It is then I also use a more confident and louder voice for me and the dog to let it know that I'm in control but not threatening. I have to know if it plans on running or attacking. One is acceptable, the other is not. I also have experience dealing with everything from baby birds, kittens, cats in trees, dogs that have been out for months, reptiles, waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans and loons, etc.) wolves, wolf hybrids, raptors, common birds (seagulls, crows and such), small mammals, sea mammals (whales, seals and dolphins) and a silverback gorilla named "Little Joe". While I do not claim to be an expert, I have much day to day experience. This is just on the 'rescue' end. Law enforcement animals are bit different. It's not about being a hero, it's about getting out of situations with a minimal incident and little stress. However, a friend and I once discussed, a little stress now is better than a lot of stress in a rescue situation. I try not to let situations become too stressful for myself or the animal. The animal can tell if you are stressed or afraid. You just try not to be...be patient.

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