Expert: Stephen Vantassel - 11/24/2007

Question
Hi I live in the country and there is a stray/feral Golden retriever type dog that has three new puppies,I put out some food for her,she will take it,but won't let me catch her

What is the best way of gaining her trust? It's getting cold out and I don't want her or the puppies to freeze to death,I plan on keeping her and getting her fixed ect The local no kill rescue has agreed to find homes for the puppies if I can get a hold of the mother

Answer
My first comment would be do you know what risks you are exposing yourself too? Have you received training and equipment so that you can protect yourself and your family?

If the answer is yes. Then I would suggest trapping her, rather than spending time trying to gain trust which would put you at greater risk of injury. I would suggest a Collarum trap. this way she will be caught and you can handle her more safely. You will need training for this trap but hopefully you don't live in a state that has banned it like Massachusetts citizens did.