The Different Types of Animal Rescue

There is a lot of misconception about what animal rescue is, or how to go about “rescuing” an animal. I have seen and read many accounts of disasters as a result of misinformation. Some people mean well but do not have the resources and as a result animals are not helped, rather they are harmed. Other people use the term loosely in an attempt to disguise their own selfish actions of hoarding animals or as a way to get free pets. This is an act of avarice not an act of compassion. I want to clarify that I am not opposed to pet ownership, but call it such, rather than misleading people under the name of rescue.

There are four main kinds of animal rescue, these are wild animals, livestock, exotic pets, and cats and dogs, I shall attempt to address all four.

Wildlife Rescue

 http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikebaird/3576957237/  Pacific Loon assisted by Pacific Wildlife Care, California.

Unless a group or individual is set up with correct knowledge and permissions, in most areas it is illegal for them to take any wild animal into their care. That is to say, if you find an injured animal, or “abandoned” baby animal, you cannot bring in into your home and try to “save” it. There are wildlife experts who are set up in most areas to do this.

Many young animals have been killed by well meaning people who think they were abandoned by their mothers. In fact many wild animals leave their young while they go off to forage. However, if you find a fawn, for example, and know the mother is dead (hit by a car) the fawn should be put in the care of a wildlife specialist. Most veterinarians can direct you where to take the animal, or whom to call. Generally you should not handle an animal yourself, but call an expert to do so. You can subject them to undue stress if you handle them incorrectly or could put yourself at risk of injury.

In most places it is illegal to catch any wild animal and keep it as a pet, including small animals such as frogs and snakes. This is NOT rescue.  If you wish to set yourself up as a wildlife rescue you should talk with the authorities in your area about accreditation and laws. The main goal should be to return the animals to their natural environment, or placing those who can not be rehabilitated into good zoos or permanent care facilities.