Veterinary Care for Sick and Injured Wildlife
Caring for wild animals is different than caring for pets, and requires specialized training and experience. It is challenging to diagnose and treat a patient who can’t talk, doesn’t want to be approached or touched by humans, and hides its symptoms so not to be recognized as weak and easy prey by a predator. These patients are most relaxed when they are hidden from people, so we can’t observe them very closely, and they often make treating them even more difficult by refusing to take their medication, or removing their bandages.
Unlike domestic pets who can count on their owners for food and shelter, wild animals must be able to fend for themselves once they are released from our care. Any disability that makes it difficult for them to find and catch food, or avoid predators, is a reason not to release them because they will not survive in the wild.
Dr. Burwell works out of two local veterinary clinics who generously donate the use of their facilities for the treatment of wildlife. Often we will have wildlife dropped off at one of these clinics so procedures such as radiographs or surgery can be performed if needed.
Please notify WVC at 540-664-9494 before dropping off an animal so we can let you know which facility will be able to provide the fastest care.
Plaza Pet Clinic
1855 Senseny Road, Ste 7
Winchester, VA 22601
540-722-3200
Wildlife Veterinary Care
1150 Tilthammer Mill Road, Boyce, VA 22620
For Veterinary Professionals
The below downloadable manual has information to assist you with the care of sick and injured wildlife.