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When an animal is injured, in danger, cold,dehydrated, or becoming weak, something needs to be done.
An animal needs to be in the care of an experienced rehabilitator or veterinarian. Call us at 336-879-7644 for additional advice.
Even very young animals will bite if startled or hurt. A pair of gardening gloves should be adequate for most babies. Pick the baby up carefully to avoid causing further injury. Cup it in your hand and grip the head firmly, but gently, between your thumb and index finger to keep it from biting.
A heating pad on "low" is best, but be careful not to allow the animal to overheat. Never attempt to feed a cold animal. The digestive system shuts down during periods of hypothermia and food at this time could kill the animal. Gently warm the animal before making any attempt to feed it.
Wild babies have special nutritional needs. To give them the best chance of survival, let an experienced, licensed rehabilitator raise them. It is against the law to keep wildlife without the proper permits. If you can't get the animal to the rehabilitator quickly, ask him/her what you should do. Doing the wrong thing can make matters worse or even cause the death of the animal. In the excitement of finding and holding a wild animal, injuries might be overlooked. If not given proper care, the animal may not live.
Cat bites - Even small wounds require antibiotics. The germs in a cat's mouth cause serious infections and are deadly to rabbits unless treated promptly.
Broken bones – These usually occur in the legs or wings; the skin may or may not be broken. The part may be held in an abnormal position, exhibit swelling and/or weakness.
Puncture wounds - Deep wounds from bites and gunshots need to be thoroughly cleaned (under anesthesia). Antibiotics are necessary.
Maggots - Flies lay their eggs around open wounds or anywhere on weak animals. The eggs resemble clumps of sand and adhere to fur or feathers. In hot weather they can hatch in as little as 24 hours and can do considerable damage to healthy tissue. Eggs and maggots must be removed as soon as possible, but in a way that avoids damage to feathers or healthy skin.
Hypothermia - Young animals can’t control their body temperatures. If they feel cool to the touch, they are too cold and are at risk. But, remember, overheating can kill, too.
Dehydration - Babies dehydrate quickly. Pinch and release skin over the animal’s back. It should snap back to its normal position; if not, the animal needs a veterinarian’s help.
Starvation - At some stage of starvation the intestines lose the ability to digest food. Giving normal foods at this point can kill an animal. A readily absorbed prescription diet is necessary if the animal is to be saved.
Note: While rabies is not a common problem, it is a possibility. For your protection, as well as the animal’s, take any injured or orphaned wild animal to a qualified rehabilitator.
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