Avoid the Hurt...Just Let 'em Go

A man goes to the doctor and says, "Doctor, my arm hurts when I do this. How do I get it to stop hurting?"

The doctor, in his infinite wisdom says,
"Well first off...don't do that!"

This has often been told as a joke in the past but there is a lesson to be learned, especially when it comes to wildlife. Most people are loving and caring individuals who want only the best things to happen, especially for animals they care about. Pets are the prime example. It is only natural for humans to feel this way.

This is a tricky subject, however, when it comes to wildlife, especially when caring for and looking after rehab animals. These are wild animals that are raised or nursed back to health for the purpose of being released back into the wild. What makes this a difficult subject is that people often forget that a life in the wild is likely to be harsh, difficult, cruel and in many cases far shorter than many people realize. Survival rates for most young animals is pitiful. It's sad but it's also reality.

So here's my best advice. If it's difficult for you to know the outcome of an individual animal after its release…dont ask. Or as my doctor would suggest...

         Don't do that! 


Don't dig for information you need not know if it's likely to cause you pain. Simply seek comfort in knowing that the best opportunity was given this animal and after its release, it lives and dies as it should...a wild and free spirit. And be happy that nature has given you a gift to behold even if only for a brief moment in time.

Last but not least...please never RESCUE any wild animals. Call a wildlife professional first, they will usually know the best course of action.  I have seen far too many animals that were unintentionally harmed because of good intentions.