(Skyler Ewing/Pexels)

By Lisa Parent

WHAT TO KNOW

Here’s what to do when dealing with injured wildlife

Apr 26, 2024 | 3:18 PM

It can be neat to live side-by-side with an urban deer population, but it can also present a hazard for both parties.

If you see an animal get hit by a car, or with a significant injury, a report can be made to Fish and Wildlife.

Fish and Wildlife will assess the condition of the animal and if it’s deemed completely immobile, they may consider euthanasia.

Rehabilitation centers do collaborate with Fish and Wildlife to care for smaller animals or birds that are hurt.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2024

Homelessness, adaptive sports and more: Community stories that defined Medicine Hat in 2024

21h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Mustard Seed shelter provides Christmas dinner in Medicine Hat

Dec 24, 2024

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat doctor from Africa spends first Christmas in Canada with citizenship

Dec 24, 2024

Sgt. Trevor Johnson, a Fish and Wildlife officer, recommends always keeping your distance from animals, even if they are injured.

“At the end of the day, these are wild animals. I know in a lot of cases, they look cute but they don’t have a rule book to follow and they could react to your presence negatively,” said Johnson.

“We don’t want anybody to get hurt and we don’t want the wildlife to be injured or put in a position that causes them to defend themselves.”

Johnson told CHAT News that most injured animals that are still able to eat and drink will heal on their own.

Fish and Wildlife can be contacted at 1-800-642-3800.