Patient of the Month: Grey Fox
Each patient we treat offers an opportunity to learn how to be better neighbors to the local wildlife. Your support makes our mission possible.
On June 6th, a Cooper City resident discovered a gray fox kit entangled in their soccer net. Staff responded to the call and quickly got to work. With the owner’s permission, we clipped the net and were able to free the fox for transport back to the hospital. An intake exam revealed this young female had fleas and crusted wounds on her neck and head. Fortunately, there were no constriction injuries from being entangled. The clinic staff thoroughly cleaned the old wounds and administered fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication. The following night staff returned to the location to attempt to reunite the baby with her family. After several hours, there was no sign of Mom, and the renest attempt was deemed unsuccessful. Upon returning to our center, she was introduced to our Fox Rehabilitation Habitat with two other fox kits, where they will hone skills that will allow them to be successful in the wild.
Wildlife entanglement is a recurring problem we see yearly in our hospital. Sports equipment, like nets, can be dangerous for unsuspecting wildlife and can lead to strangulation, severe injuries, and even death. Luckily, this is also something that can be easily avoided. Together, we can prevent injuries like these by removing nets when they are not in use. Taking this simple step will help create a safer environment for the wildlife that calls urban areas home.
At South Florida Wildlife Center, we are committed to rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife to give them a second chance in their natural environment. We need your help! Your support is crucial in helping us provide the care and resources needed for our patients’ recovery. Your donations make a difference. Together, we can protect and preserve the wildlife that calls South Florida home.
