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02/04/2005: "What to do if you find a hurt wild animal"

I repeat here a good procedure on what to do when a crippled wild creature is found. Dr. Mark A. Pokras, Director, Wildlife Clinic at Tufts University of Veterinary Medicine, has given the following steps. He notes that “it is illegal for unlicensed people to hold and care for wildlife.” So the first step is find a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Names are at http://www.ndsu.nodak.edu/ndsu/veterinary_science/twrid/html/ or contact the association at 707 864 1761. The second step is to try to get babies back to their parents. Third, keep sick or injured animals warm, quiet and in a dark place. For feeding baby birds, don not use birdseed. Try dog or cat food softened with warm water. Fourth, be careful not to get a disease from the creature. Wash hands and wear gloves. If the creature is pregnant or immuno-suppressed, talk to doctor about further precautions about handling wild creatures. (Ed. If you suspect rabies, stay back from the creature.) Pokras is quoted in Pet Doctor, Country Journal, November-December 1998.