Get Help for Injured, Orphaned, or Sick Wildlife

Finding a wild animal that appears to be injured, orphaned, or sick can be stressful, but you’re not alone. Wildhearts Rehab & Rescue Foundation is here to help guide you through the next steps and ensure the animal has the best possible chance of receiving appropriate care.

Not every young animal found alone has been abandoned, and not every animal that appears injured actually requires intervention. In many cases, the best way to help wildlife is to observe from a safe distance and allow nature to take its course. In other situations, immediate assistance may be necessary.

If you’re unsure what to do, we’re happy to help you determine the best course of action.

Before You Rescue

Before approaching any wild animal:

• Keep children and pets away from the animal.

• Do not attempt to feed or give water unless specifically instructed by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

• Avoid handling wildlife whenever possible, as frightened animals may bite or scratch.

• If it is safe to do so, observe the animal from a distance for a short period before intervening.

• If the animal is in immediate danger (such as in the roadway or threatened by pets), move it only if you can do so safely.

How to Get Help

If you believe you’ve found wildlife in need of assistance, please call or text 812-801-7712.

The more information you provide—including photographs, the animal’s location, and a description of what you’ve observed—the better we can assess the situation and provide appropriate guidance.

Whenever possible, we encourage members of the public to safely transport wildlife to our facility. This allows animals to begin receiving care as quickly as possible and helps our volunteers remain available to assist with other emergencies. If transportation is not possible, please let us know, and we’ll work with you to determine the best solution.

A Few Things to Remember

• Keep handling to an absolute minimum.

• Place injured wildlife in a quiet, dark, well-ventilated container if instructed to do so.

• Do not attempt to treat injuries yourself.

• Never keep wildlife as a pet.

• Contact us as soon as possible so we can provide guidance based on the species and circumstances.

We’re Here to Help

Every situation is unique, and the right course of action depends on the species, age, condition, and circumstances surrounding the animal.

Our goal is always the same: to provide accurate guidance, compassionate care, and whenever possible, a successful return to the wild.