Spring Wildlife & Stray Pet Awareness
As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, many of us are enjoying more time outdoors and so is our local wildlife. Spring is baby season for many animals, which means you may spot young birds, rabbits, squirrels, or other baby wildlife out in the community. While it can be tempting to step in and “rescue” these little ones, it's important to know when to intervene and when not to.
Leave Baby Wildlife Alone
We know seeing a baby animal alone can tug at your heartstrings, but in most cases, they’re not abandoned. Wildlife moms are excellent at caring for their young, even if they’re out of sight. Many species intentionally leave their babies alone for periods of time to keep predators away.
Not sure what to do? Call us first. Our team is happy to assess the situation and guide you. Removing a healthy baby from its environment often causes more harm than good, and wildlife moms are really good at what they do.
Please, Don't Feed Baby Wildlife
We can’t stress this enough: do not feed baby wildlife under any circumstances. While it may seem like a kind gesture, feeding baby animals (especially with kitten or puppy milk replacer) does more harm than good. Their digestive systems are completely different and require species-specific care. Leave the feeding to licensed wildlife professionals. We know it’s tempting, but trust us on this one!
Found a Wandering Pet? Give us a Call! We’re The First Place Their Family Will Look.
In addition to wildlife, springtime also brings an uptick in stray or lost pets. If you’ve found a domestic animal, such as a dog or cat, it’s essential that you contact us right away.
We are the only legal pound keeper in the area, in other words, we’re the official lost-and-found for pets!
__If you find a stray: __
• Let us know right away. We’re the first place people call when their pet goes missing.
• We are the only organization legally allowed to hold a found animal for the stray period as outlined in the local by-law.
• After that, if no one comes forward, we’re also the ones who find them a new forever home.
We get how easy it is to want to help by keeping a found pet or trying to rehome it yourself, but that can make it really hard for heartbroken families to find their lost companions. If we don’t know someone found their pet, we can’t reunite them.
If you find a wandering whiskered friend this season, give us a call! You could be the reason someone’s beloved pet gets home safe (cue the happy tears and tail wags).
Quick Reminders for Spring:
• Leave baby wildlife alone unless it’s clearly in trouble.
• Call us before intervening - we're here to help.
• Do not feed baby wildlife - it often causes more harm than good.
• Report found pets to us right away - we are the only ones who can legally hold and adopt them.
• Help us reunite pets with their families by keeping us informed.
Let’s work together to keep both our wild and domestic animals safe and cared for this season.
