Brian-Renee H.
2 weeks ago
Laura Gebner Kapp Me Too. Just a word of caution (or many words)...
Whether lost or abandoned and regardless of species (cat, dog, ferret, bird, etc) &/or breed, it's not unusual for pets who suddenly find themselves outside, perhaps in an unfamiliar area, and all alone, separated from their human to end up in Survival Mode (Fight, Flight or Freeze). Once on their own and left to fend for themselves, some pets (like Indoor Only Cats, Overly Skittish Dogs or Pets Who Have A History Of Abuse/Trauma) can go into Survival Mode almost instantly. This is often the case for pets who suddenly take off after being spooked or startled as well. For other pets, it may take a week or two weeks or even longer. It's different for every pet. However, once in Survival Mode, a pet's focus shifts to basic survival needs (food, water, shelter and safety). In an effort to protect themselves, these pets will view anyone they see as a predator or potential threat to their safety, including those who are trying to help them and many times, even their owner. The Good News is that this Survival Mode mindset is temporary. Once a pet is back home and they've had some time to rest, decompress and readjust, most quickly become their old self again. Unfortunately, while alone and out in the elements, a pet in Survival Mode can be very difficult to catch.
All that said, it will be really important for Mango's owner to take things slowly. Since Mango has chosen not to enter your home, it's very possible that she's in Survival Mode. So she might not recognize her owner. If so, there's a good chance that Mango could become scared and take off. Unfortunately, if she does take off, she may decide that it's no longer safe for her at your home and not return. Instead, she'll end up looking for a new "safe" place and the search for her will need to start all over. Thankfully, Mango knows you as a consistent food source. So, hopefully, even if she does get scared off, she'll eventually return.
As you've already established a level of trust with Mango, if it's possible, I'd recommend getting Mango to an area, preferably enclosed, where she won't be able to take off if she does become scared. Also, until you know how Mango will react to her owner, rather than having Mango's owner approach her directly (as Mango could perceive this to be a threat to her safety), I'd recommend having her owner sit on the ground to the right or left of Mango, keeping a good distance between them and facing in a direction away from where Mango is (as direct eye contact can be perceived as threatening and predatorial). Then, with their head down, using food or perhaps a favorite toy, to lure Mango to them. If Mango is still too skiddish and this doesn't work, it might be best to use a Humane Trap. Humane Traps can be purchased at a number of places (Home Depot, PetSmart, Amazon, etc). You'll need the raccoon sized trap. These traps can be rather expensive, so Anderson Humane may be a better option. (I'll put their info below.) Anderson Humane has Humane Traps that they will lend out, when available, for 2 weeks at a time and at no charge.
ANDERSON HUMANE ANIMAL SERVICES
1000 S La Fox Street
South Elgin IL 60177
847-697-2880
https://ahconnects.org/se
