I'VE FOUND AN ANIMAL HELP!!!!

So you've found a critter.....  Now what?!?!?

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Let's begin by determining if this is native wildlife or an exotic that has been released or lost.

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For state wildlife (any animal species that is found naturally in the state of Georgia) you will need to either contact a state licenced rehabber, Department of Natural Resources or a trapper.

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If the animal is unharmed but found in a home or yard and just needs to be removed, please contact a local animal removal company.  (If it's a bear, wild turkey or adult deer this is a call to DNR)

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If you find orphaned or injured wildlife, please call your local state rehabber to trouble shoot if the animal actually needs help (lots of babies in the spring do not need our help).  Always give the chance for a reconnection to the parent animal first.  Place in a secured nest or box and remove pets and family members from area to allow mom to come back.  Please keep in mind some moms leave babies for up to 12 hours at a time (rabbits and deer).  If baby still needs help, then make arrangements with a rehabber to transport to them.  

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Injured animals that can be safely contained and brought to a rehabber can be done so.  Please keep in mind animals are naturally terrified of humans. Babies coming up to people area sign of confusion or desperation and not love.  Handling, hugging, loud noises, bearing teeth (smiling), and snugging is a human response and can be terrifying to wild animals.  For some species what looks like they are snuggling back could be early signs of capture myopathy which can be fatal to the animal.  Capture Myopathy occurs when an animal cannot control their adrenaline from fear, and they release enough lactic acid from their muscles to shut down their organs.  Signs include not wanting to get up or stand, lack of eating or drinking, lap puppy syndrome.

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Tips for wildlife

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Do's 

Use COMMON SENSE! 

Wear gloves and other protective clothing.

Keep area free of children. pets and loud noises.

Hold in a dark quiet place to reduce stress on the animal.

Transport with radios off to reduce stress.

Always understand that these are wild animals and CAN and WILL BITE if hurt or scared.

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DON"Ts

DO NOT keep wildlife and try to self rehab.

DO NOT feed unless guided by a STATE LICENSED rehabber to do so.

DO NOT think you are a pro because you googled it.

DO NOT let children pet or hold animals no matter how small or cute they are.