Caring for Our Wildlife – A Shared Responsibility

 Australia’s wildlife is truly unique, and every native animal plays an important role in maintaining the balance of our environment. From birds and bats to reptiles, marsupials, and marine life, each species faces increasing challenges due to habitat loss, climate extremes, vehicle strikes, disease, and human interaction. When wildlife is injured, orphaned, or displaced, prompt and correct care can mean the difference between life and death.

At our practice, we are committed to ensuring that any wildlife presented to us is treated with respect, compassion, and the highest standard of veterinary care. We understand that native animals have very different needs to domestic pets, and inappropriate handling, feeding, or housing can unintentionally cause serious harm. That is why correct assessment, stabilisation, and referral to registered wildlife carers are essential.

Our team:

• Provides initial emergency assessment and stabilisation for injured wildlife
   
• Works closely with licensed wildlife carers and rescue organisations
   
• Ensures animals are kept warm, quiet, and stress-free while awaiting transfer
   
• Advocates for ethical, best-practice wildlife care
   
• Educates our community on what to do—and what not to do—when wildlife is found
   

Wild animals experience extreme stress when handled, and even well-meaning actions such as offering food, water, or attempting home care can lead to aspiration, inappropriate nutrition, shock, or death. For this reason, wildlife should never be kept as pets or treated without proper advice.

If you find a native animal that is injured, orphaned, entangled, or in danger:

• Do not attempt to treat or feed the animal
   
• Keep it warm, dark, and quiet if safe to do so
   
• Avoid excessive handling
   
• Contact trained wildlife rescue professionals immediately
   

If our clinic is open, please contact us straight away so we can assist with immediate assessment and coordination of appropriate care.

If we are unavailable, please contact the wildlife rescue numbers provided in the attached images. These organisations are staffed by trained volunteers and professionals who can give urgent advice and arrange safe transport and ongoing rehabilitation.

Every rescued animal represents:

• A chance to return a life back to the wild
   
• The protection of fragile species
   
• The preservation of Australia’s natural biodiversity
   

By responding quickly and correctly, you are directly contributing to the survival of our native animals.