Wildlife rehabilitators not only treat injuries and other ailments, but they care for the animals during the healing process. (In some cases, a veterinarian may need to perform surgery, and the rehabilitator continues the care.)
The goal of wildlife rehabilitation is to ultimately release a healthy animal back into its natural environment. But this is not always possible. Some animals recover from injuries but retain permanent damage that prevents them from surviving in the wild. These animals may be sent to zoos or nature refuges.
The following are examples of animals treated by wildlife rehabilitators:
- A turtle found nailed to a floor. (Yes, NAILED TO A FLOOR!) This box turtle was discovered in a house under construction. The spike ran completely through the shell and body. After the turtle was rescued, a veterinarian removed the nail, and the turtle recuperated at a wildlife rehab center where it was medicated to prevent infection. IT SURVIVED.
- A swan with an arrow through its body. A rehabilitator removed the arrow and treated the wound. Once the swan healed, it was released back into the waters where it had been found.
- A mother possum hit by a car had died. Her babies, who were still in her pouch, miraculously survived. They were transported to a wildlife rehabilitation center where they received round the clock care until they grew and were strong enough to be released.
Other volunteers transport injured animals. (They need to be trained to do this, but the center often provides this training.) Volunteers can also help with clerical/office work, while other volunteers help with fundraising. Then there are those who collect and donate needed supplies like old rags, food, dishes, etc.
If you care about wildlife, there is a volunteer job for you. Contact your nearest wildlife rehabilitation center and find out how you can help.
