Category From our Wildlife Rehabilitators

On November 11th, we embarked on an inspiring journey into the world of wildlife rehabilitation with our first-ever beginners’ training event. The turnout was heartwarming, and the engagement was profound as we delved into the delicate art and science of wildlife care.

The day was rich with learning, starting with a comprehensive session on intake and assessment protocols. Participants were given a detailed walkthrough of the initial steps involved in wildlife rehabilitation, setting the stage for what would be a deeply educational experience. We explored the nuances of capture, handling, and transport, crucial skills for ensuring the safety and well-being of both the animals and the rehabilitators.

Maintenance care was a major focus, where attendees learned the day-to-day requirements of different species in rehabilitation. The participants were introduced to the principles of beginning homeopathic medicine, an area of growing interest in wildlife care. We dived into the preparation and administration of remedies like Arnica, known for its properties to reduce trauma, Calendula for healing wounds, Bach’s Rescue Remedy for stress relief, and Hypericum for nerve pain.

Perhaps the most touching aspect of the day was the presence of young, eager faces, some of whom I recognized as my former veterinary students. Their familiar enthusiasm brought a wave of nostalgia and a renewed sense of hope for the future of wildlife rehabilitation. It was a vivid reminder of the continuous cycle of learning and teaching, and the importance of passing on knowledge to the next generation of wildlife caretakers.

As we wrapped up our session, the air was filled with a collective sense of accomplishment and anticipation for future trainings. The path forward for these novice rehabilitators is bright, and the dedication they have shown promises great strides in the care and conservation of wildlife.

For those who couldn’t join us but are interested in becoming a part of this rewarding field, more information is readily available. I encourage you to visit our website and click on the training tab at the top of the page to sign up and learn more about our upcoming sessions.

Together, we’re not just training rehabilitators; we’re nurturing the growth of a community dedicated to the noble cause of wildlife preservation. Join us in this mission, and be a part of a movement that nurtures both the wild we aim to protect and the human spirit that drives our conservation efforts.

As our communities grow, change, and evolve, so do our interactions with the natural world. Urban expansion, pollution, and other human-made factors can significantly impact our local wildlife. While these changes can be challenging for wildlife, our responsibility as stewards of the land is to ensure that these creatures are taken care of. This is where the importance of wildlife rehabilitation comes into play.

Why is Wildlife Rehabilitation Essential?

Wildlife rehabilitation is the care and treatment of injured, orphaned, or sick wild animals with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. These animals often come into harm’s way due to various reasons, including collisions with vehicles, window strikes, habitat loss, or human-wildlife conflict. In such cases, timely and specialized care can mean the difference between life and death.

Furthermore, wildlife rehabilitation not only serves the animals but our community as well. By helping to maintain balanced ecosystems, we protect the biodiversity that is crucial for a healthy environment. The ripple effects of this work extend to the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat.

The Urgent Need for New Rehabilitators and Volunteers

As the demand for wildlife care continues to rise, there is an increasing need for trained rehabilitators and volunteers. These individuals are often the unsung heroes, working tirelessly behind the scenes to care for our area’s injured and orphaned wildlife.

However, becoming a rehabilitator is not just about passion. Proper training is essential to ensure the safe and effective treatment of wildlife. This is why we are reaching out to those in our community who feel the call to this noble profession.

Upcoming Training Sessions

We’re excited to announce a series of training sessions designed for individuals at every level:

• Beginners: November 11 and February 3
• Intermediate: January 20 and April 6
• Advanced: June 15

Each session will provide hands-on experience, knowledge from seasoned professionals, and insights into the challenges and rewards of wildlife rehabilitation. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to hone your skills further, there’s a class tailored to your needs.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Wildlife rehabilitation is more than just a profession or a hobby—it’s a calling. It’s a commitment to preserving our natural world for future generations. By joining this community, you become part of a bigger mission, one that has tangible benefits for our environment and its inhabitants.

If you’ve ever felt the urge to make a positive impact, now is the time to act. Sign up for our training sessions and embark on a journey that promises not only personal fulfillment but also a brighter future for our wildlife.

Sign up and learn about new training opportunities on our Training page by clicking the Training tab at the top of the page

Hello, dear readers! I’m Dr. David Angerstein, and I’m thrilled to be writing this post, sharing the wonderful transformations happening at the Second Chance Wildlife Rescue.

Change, as they say, is the only constant, and the winds of change have brought about fresh energy, new perspectives, and renewed passion to our wildlife center. We are experiencing a renaissance, and I am genuinely excited to be a part of this evolution.

A Glimpse of What’s Coming

1. Regular Updates and Reflections: Our center hosts numerous events, trainings, and workshops, focusing on wildlife care, conservation, and awareness. Through this blog, we promise to keep you updated on these activities, sharing insights and learnings from each one of them.
2. Success Stories: One of the most heartwarming aspects of our job is witnessing the successful release of rehabilitated animals back into their natural habitats. We will be documenting these touching moments and sharing them with you, celebrating every little victory in the world of wildlife preservation.
3. Knowledge Sharing: Knowledge grows when shared. We are privileged to be connected with a community of passionate individuals, including educators, biologists, veterinarians, and fellow rehab centers. We’ll be hosting guest posts, interviews, and articles by these experts, bringing you diverse perspectives and deeper understanding of wildlife and their world.

Why This Matters To Me

Joining the Second Chance Wildlife Rescue wasn’t just a professional choice for me; it was a heartfelt decision. Wildlife has always held a special place in my heart, and being at the helm of changes at a place that shares this sentiment is both an honor and responsibility.

We’re not just rehabilitating animals here; we’re also nurturing a community. A community that cares for the environment, understands the importance of every living creature, and is committed to making a tangible difference.

Join Our Journey

I invite you to join us in this journey of discovery, learning, and celebration. The path of wildlife rehabilitation is filled with challenges, but it also brings unparalleled joy and satisfaction. And through this blog, we hope to share a piece of that joy with you.

Remember, every creature deserves a second chance, and together, we can ensure they get it. Stay tuned for more updates, stories, and knowledge sharing. Here’s to a brighter future, both for us and for the wonderful wildlife we serve!

Warmly, Dr. David Angerstein