Wildlife species in the UK are vast, and they often have to live in synergy with the expanding urbanisation and in harmony with humans. But sometimes, they get into trouble (and it's often the humans fault!).
What do we do when we find a sick or injured wild animal?! Join us as we speak to wildlife vet, Emily Llewellyn, as we investigate wildlife vetting in the UK.
What are the barriers, legislation, obligations and considerations we take into account when presented with poorly wildlife? What constitutes as first aid, and as veterinary professionals, rehabbers and members of the public, what are the do's and do nots of supportive care and first aid when we find something in need of help?
We learn about what is, and is not treatable. What are the most common casualties? How do we handle the prickly, the bitey and the ferocious? And are they any hidden dangers - like zoonotic disease, bacteria and viruses? How do we protect ourselves whilst still helping out these little (or big) animals?
Wildlife can be a contentious subject (and we won't allow any disparaging comments, only helpful comments), and one with lots of opinions and passionate individuals who have the best interests of wildlife at heart.
We learn how general practice teams can up-skill and learn to be confident in first aid provision and encourage practices to make links with wildlife hospitals for individual support; we learn how the public can be more understanding that not everything is treatable and just how much veterinary teams and rehabbers need to consider (such as long term prognosis) before we decide to treat and rehabilitate, and we learn how wildlife rehabbers can improve their protocols to increase antimicrobial stewardship.
Who are we going to call? Not ghost busters! Here are some useful websites to help direct you.
https://www.bwrc.org.uk
/https://directory.helpwildlife.co.uk
/https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife/injured
There are also some resources on wildvet_in_the_forest
https://www.instagram.com/wildvet_in_the_forest?igsh=MXB1NWhmdXB5a2t3eA==
Are you a vet or RVN who wants to increase your confidence? Each year Stapeley Grange and the team arrange a number of wildlife courses which provides training and CPD opportunities for wildlife rehabilitators, vets and vet nurses. Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre - Education - rspca.org.uk - RSPCA
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