Wildlife Emergency
If you find sick, injured or orphaned wildlife, send a TEXT with a photo,brief description, and location and someone will get back to you.
TEXT US: (626) 715-0262​
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If You’ve Found a Wild Animal —
Act Quickly and Carefully
Wear gloves and gently place the animal in a secure, well-ventilated cardboard box with a lid or a pet carrier. Line the bottom with a soft T-shirt or cloth for comfort and to prevent injury.
Close the lid and keep the container in a quiet, dark, warm place away from people and pets. Limiting noise, light, and handling is critical — stress can be life-threatening for wild animals.
Do not give food or water.
Feeding or offering fluids can cause serious harm, especially if the animal requires surgery or emergency medical treatment.
Do not attempt to treat, raise, or keep the animal yourself.
Wildlife have specialized medical and nutritional needs. Improper care — even with the best intentions — can lead to suffering, permanent injury, or death, and may also put you at risk.
Contact Cleo's Critter Care immediately.
Professional care gives the animal the best possible chance of survival and release. TEXT US: (626) 715-0262​
Every year countless animals die or suffer irreversible harm because a well-meaning finder didn't get the animal to a wildlife rehabber in time. Give wild animals the best chance of survival. Trust their care to a trained rehabber.
What to Do If You Find a Baby Animal
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1. Pause and observe first.
If the baby is fully furred, has open eyes, and is hopping around, it is likely a healthy juvenile learning to explore. The mother is usually nearby. Do not remove the baby unless it is injured or in immediate danger.
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2. Check for injury or danger.
The squirrel needs help if it is:
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Bleeding or visibly injured
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Cold, weak, or unresponsive
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Covered in flies or maggots
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Caught by a cat or dog
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Found next to a deceased mother
If any of these apply, contact us immediately.
3. If the baby is uninjured but alone:
You can attempt a reunion.
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Place the baby at the base of the tree where it was found (or in a shallow box secured to the tree).
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Keep pets and people away.
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Watch from a distance for 2–4 hours.
The mother will not reject her baby because of human scent.
4. If the mother does not return:
Wearing gloves, gently place the baby in a small, well-ventilated box lined with soft cloth. Keep the box in a quiet, warm place and contact a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.
Do NOT give food or water. Improper feeding can cause serious harm. Wild squirrels have specialized needs. Professional care gives them the best chance to grow strong and return to the wild.
BABY SQUIRRELS
