What should one look for when assessing an animal's readiness for restraint?

When assessing an animal's readiness for restraint, paying close attention to behavioral cues and body language is critical. Animals communicate their emotional state through their posture, movement, and facial expressions, which can indicate stress, fear, or aggression. Observing these signs can help an individual understand whether the animal is comfortable, anxious, or ready to be handled. For instance, signs such as a tucked tail, flattened ears, or a stiff body may suggest the animal is not ready for restraint and may react negatively. Conversely, relaxed body language may indicate that the animal is calm and more manageable.

Considering factors like size and breed alone does not provide enough insight into the animal's current emotional state. Similarly, focusing solely on signs of aggression ignores that many animals may display signs of distress without being overtly aggressive, and recent health history, while relevant, does not directly inform how the animal is feeling in the moment. Therefore, the comprehensive assessment of behavioral cues and body language is essential for safe and humane restraint.