What to do if an animal gets tangled in a net 🧡 🐾

First steps — assess and stay safe

Finding an animal tangled in a net can be distressing. Before acting, take a moment to assess: is the animal calm or panicked? Are there hazards like water, roads, or electrical lines nearby? Your safety comes first — you can't help if you get hurt.

Quick assessment checklist

• How tightly is the animal entangled and which body parts are affected (neck, limbs, torso)?
• Is the animal breathing normally? Are there signs of heavy bleeding or shock?
• Are there environmental risks that make rescue dangerous for you?

Safe ways to free an animal

If the situation looks manageable and you can approach safely, follow steps to reduce stress and avoid further injury.

Prepare

• Put on sturdy gloves to protect your hands from cuts and contamination.
• Have a thick towel or blanket to gently restrain and calm the animal.
• Use blunt-ended scissors or wire cutters and work slowly to avoid cutting skin.

Freeing technique

• Approach calmly, speaking in a low voice.
• If possible work with another person: one to hold, one to cut.
• Release constriction around the neck and chest first so the animal can breathe.
• Cut away the net in sections and keep sharp edges away from the animal's skin.

If the animal is aggressive or frightened

• Do not risk bites or serious injury. Use a blanket as a temporary cover to reduce panic.
• If you cannot safely secure the animal, call for trained help — animal rescue volunteers or emergency services.

After release — basic care

• Check for wounds and press a clean cloth on any heavy bleeding. Transport to a vet if needed.
• Signs of shock (pale gums, rapid breathing, weakness) require urgent veterinary attention.
• Even when injuries aren’t obvious, a vet check is recommended: hidden tissue damage, abrasions, or infections are possible.

Prevention and community measures

• Store nets and wires out of reach of animals and secure them properly.
• Mark or fold nets so they do not form loops or snags that animals can catch.
• Inform neighbours and local services about hazardous materials in public areas.
• Organise community clean-ups and share simple safety tips.

When to call professionals

• If the animal is trapped in a hard-to-reach place, is severely injured, or aggressive, professional rescuers should be contacted.
• If you're unsure how to proceed, wait for trained help rather than causing more harm.

Final note

A careful, calm response often makes the difference. Small actions — safe rescue technique, prompt vet care, and community prevention — protect both animals and people.