When you have a pet that gets sick or injured, what do you do? You take them straight to the Veterinarian’s office. Local vets often know how to care for all kinds of animals like dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters, and other animals that we call pets. But have you ever wondered what happens to native, wild animals when they get hurt? Animals that live in your backyard like opossums, racoons, birds, bats, and other species. They still need medical help, and that’s where Wildlife Rehab Facilities come in.
Wildlife Rehab Facilities are the less recognized and essential heroes of local wildlife conservation. These organizations focus only on native animals, doing their best to rescue and rehabilitate injured species so they may eventually be released back into their natural habitats. On top of that, many of the people who work as wildlife rehabbers are volunteers. This means that they care for these animals entirely unpaid, and many times they even care for their animal patients in their own homes until they can be released.
Since many zoos are only equipped for exotic and endangered animals, they don’t normally have the space for species like squirrels or racoons, animals which are NOT endangered or exotic. And regular vet offices most of the time are only equipped to take care of animals that are traditionally seen as pets like dogs, cats, and other common pet species. Wildlife rehabbers and rehab organizations are some of the only people who are equipped to care for native animals. And they are always in need of donations and support!
The busiest time for many of these rehabbers is Spring and early Summer, also known as “baby season” which is happening right now! During this time newborn wildlife of all kinds arrive at rehab facilities by the hundreds. Volunteer rehabbers take on everything from feeding hatchlings and preparing specialized diets, to cleaning enclosures, transporting animals, and assisting with releases back into the wild. Wildlife rehab centers all over rely heavily on their volunteers, whose dedication ensures that vulnerable wildlife get the care they need to survive.
If you are looking to make a difference there are plenty of ways to support these everyday conservationists! Opportunities exist at rehab facilities all over, and there is very likely one close to where you live! If you can’t volunteer your time, think about donating supplies, funds, or even raising awareness about wildlife. Any assistance you provide can make a big impact and help lighten the load of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to healing native wildlife.
To find an organization to volunteer at near you, visit forwild.org/get-involved, where you can explore our interactive map of organizations that need your support.
