[Chris]

Every spring/summer people go out into the wilderness and come into contact with the local wildlife. Sometimes we may see an animal that looks like it needs “rescuing.”

How can you determine if an animal actually needs your help?

1. Is the Animal Injured?

If the animal is obviously injured, it may need help. If you are qualified to help the animal, do so. If not, call someone who is. Give your local area wildlife authority a call, or if you do not have one, call the nearest SPCA or Veterinary Clinic as they may have more information on what to do and where to take the injured animal. If the animal appears thin or weak (this may be hard to tell) take it to the nearest animal rehabilitation facility. If the animal has been hit by a car or attacked by another animal, call the nearest wildlife authority to determine the course of action. Most counties have 24-hour animal pickup services for dead or dying animals. While they may not be able to help with an injured animal, they will be able to direct you where to take it.

2. Is the Animal Orphaned?

An orphaned animal is one that is young and not able to care for itself or has had its parents killed. If the animal appears healthy and is able to walk, it probably does not need your help. Most animals learn to be independent at a young age and while it may seem sad that it has lost its parents, it won’t hinder its ability to survive. Observe the animal from a distance before calling any wildlife authority as the parents could be nearby. This can also be dangerous. Never approach animals such as bear cubs.

3. Is the Animal in Danger?

Identify the danger and decide whether or not you can help the animal without coming into danger yourself or harming other wildlife. One common danger to wildlife is your own pets or children. Keep them away from wildlife. If the animal looks harmless, your pets or children may hurt it. If the animal looks mean, it may hurt your pets or children! It’s a no-win situation. If there is a natural predator attacking the animal, stay away from it. Call your local wildlife authority and discuss it with them. It may sound cruel, but this is a natural process. Animals must kill other animals in the wild to survive. If you upset this, you may harm both animals!