Help! I've found a sick or injured wild animal
What do I do?
First you want to make sure that if it's a juvenile, it is abandoned. Carefully look around the area for their mother. Do not disturb the young animal but at the same time do not allow it to be attacked by another animal or object, the mother might be in the process of moving it to a safer site. Remember, usually they can only carry one young at a time. If after a few hours and no sign of their mother, this is when you can intervene. Call a local veterinarian, animal shelter, or animal control and find a wildlife carer in your area.
In the event of a collision between an animal and a motor vehicle be careful about approaching the injured animal as it may kick or bite, if possible cover its head with a towel or some type of clothing and call a licensed carer and they will provide the necessary treatment for the animal. This may include euthanizing the animal.
Don't feed the animal. You run the risk of doing more harm then good. They might be hungry, but feeding them the wrong type of food may actually kill them. If you think the wild baby is dehydrated; first warm the baby, then offer warm water only. Certain wild animals require special formulas. Cow’s milk is not one of them.
Remember wild animals may carry fleas, ticks, and may also have diseases. Never bring a wild animal into your home around your pets as it may attack your pet/s or your pet/s may attack the wild animal and their may also be a transfer of disease both ways between animals. If you see a dead animal, please pull over carefully and check. Also check pouches for joeys, always cut the treat of the mum, never pull the joey off, or contact us on 0417 926 130.
SAFETY FIRST: Your safety is of the most importance.
DO NOT ever attempt to handle the following animals:
When handling any animal it is important to use the proper protection. Gloves, towels, bags or blankets can all be used to protect yourself from being bitten or scratched.
For help on any wildlife please ring Express Wildlife Rescue, on 0417926130
First you want to make sure that if it's a juvenile, it is abandoned. Carefully look around the area for their mother. Do not disturb the young animal but at the same time do not allow it to be attacked by another animal or object, the mother might be in the process of moving it to a safer site. Remember, usually they can only carry one young at a time. If after a few hours and no sign of their mother, this is when you can intervene. Call a local veterinarian, animal shelter, or animal control and find a wildlife carer in your area.
In the event of a collision between an animal and a motor vehicle be careful about approaching the injured animal as it may kick or bite, if possible cover its head with a towel or some type of clothing and call a licensed carer and they will provide the necessary treatment for the animal. This may include euthanizing the animal.
Don't feed the animal. You run the risk of doing more harm then good. They might be hungry, but feeding them the wrong type of food may actually kill them. If you think the wild baby is dehydrated; first warm the baby, then offer warm water only. Certain wild animals require special formulas. Cow’s milk is not one of them.
Remember wild animals may carry fleas, ticks, and may also have diseases. Never bring a wild animal into your home around your pets as it may attack your pet/s or your pet/s may attack the wild animal and their may also be a transfer of disease both ways between animals. If you see a dead animal, please pull over carefully and check. Also check pouches for joeys, always cut the treat of the mum, never pull the joey off, or contact us on 0417 926 130.
SAFETY FIRST: Your safety is of the most importance.
DO NOT ever attempt to handle the following animals:
- Snakes: Even dead snakes can result in envenomation if handled incorrectly.
- Bats: Can carry a wide range of potentially fatal diseases.
- Adult Kangaroos: Can break bones and seriously injure if they feel threatened.
- Birds of prey: Talons can severely injure and some have extremely strong, "Bone Crushing" beaks.
When handling any animal it is important to use the proper protection. Gloves, towels, bags or blankets can all be used to protect yourself from being bitten or scratched.
For help on any wildlife please ring Express Wildlife Rescue, on 0417926130