If you should find an animal that’s been hurt or injured, there are some simple steps you should follow:
First of all, you should ask yourself if it needs rescuing now, or can you notify someone more qualified?
Situations that you may come across:
- Road traffic accident casualty
- Damaged limb/s
- Obvious wounds
- A trapped animal (e.g. in netting – do NOT cut free and release until fully assessed)
- If unresponsive/unconscious – it will need veterinary attention immediately
PLEASE DON’T TRY TO ATTEND TO AN INJURED ANIMAL IF EITHER…
- If you are not equipped
- If you, or others would be put in too much danger
If you see an animal that needs attention, you should contact us immediately.
Note: Adult squirrels have a dangerous bite, do not handle unless confident!
There are a few things you can do to help while you wait…
- If you can approach the animal lay a blanket/coat over the casualty for warmth.
- If the animal is on the road, protect it from traffic if possible.
- Consider personal safety on roads (e.g. reflective jackets, warning signs)
- Do not drag the animal off the road. If safe to do so, lift it to a safe place on a coat/towel