Did you find a wild animal
in need of care?

FOLLOW THESE STEPS

1. Observe from a Distance

  • Watch quietly from afar before approaching. Many young animals (especially fawns or fledglings) may appear abandoned but are actually being cared for by a nearby parent.

  • If the animal is in immediate danger (e.g. from traffic or predators), you can gently move it to a safer nearby spot using gloves or a towel.

​2. Do Not Attempt to Feed or Give Water

  • Feeding or watering can cause serious harm or death, especially if the animal is dehydrated or in shock.

  • When an animal is weak or dehydrated, its body cannot properly process food or liquids. Water can enter the lungs and cause aspiration pneumonia, and food can lead to choking, digestive failure, or infections.

    • If you believe the animal is dehydrated, the safest and kindest thing you can do is keep it quiet, warm, and in a dark place until you can reach a licensed wildlife rehabilitator

3. Minimize Handling

  • Wild animals are easily stressed. If handling is necessary for safety, wear gloves or use a towel to gently place the animal in a ventilated container (such as a box with air holes or animal crate).

  • Keep the box in a warm, dark, quiet place away from pets and people.

4. Do Not Try to Care for It Yourself

  • It is illegal in most states, including Virginia, to keep or rehabilitate wildlife without the proper permits.

  • Even well-meaning care can cause long-term harm.

5. Contact a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator Immediately - Call or Text Roanoke Wildlife Rescue at (540) 330-6119

  • Reach out to a local wildlife rescue center, rehabilitator, or animal control agency for guidance.

  • Be prepared to describe:

    • The species (if known)

    • The animal’s condition

    • The exact location where it was found

  • Follow the rehabilitator’s instructions. Rehabilitators are trained to know whether the animal needs to be brought in or left alone.

6. Keep the Animal Safe Until Help is Available

  • Limit noise and handling.

  • Do not allow children or pets near it.

  • Avoid checking on it frequently, as this can cause stress.

Roanoke Wildlife Rescue DOES NOT Admit the Following Animals

Birds (contact Help Wild Birds at  540-342-4890)

Deer

Domestic Animals

If you need help with a species that Roanoke Wildlife Rescue is not able to accept, please click on the button below for the complete list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators in Virginia.

List of Licensed Wildlife Rehabiltators