Capture & Transport

I have found an injured animal.

Unfortunately we are not staffed to come out and pick up injured and orphaned animals. We rely greatly on Good Samaritans to capture animals in need and bring them to our hospital. When handling any wild animal it is best to reduce contact as much as possible. When scared or injured, wild animals will be even more defensive than normal. Please refer to the advice below before handling any wild animals:

  • BE AWARE that you may be handling a rabies vector species! All mammals can carry rabies, even babies; however some are more prone to the disease and are considered rabies vectors. Rabies vector species in New Jersey include raccoon, skunk, fox, coyote, bat, groundhog, muskrat, and beaver. Practice EXTREME caution when handling these species. If bitten, you will need to go directly to the ER for your rabies vaccinations and the animal will need to be tested for the disease. Rabies is a fatal disease to humans if not treated properly.
  • Have a box or carrier ready. Line the container with a towel or sheet.
  • Always wear gloves when handling wild animals. Any animal can bite, so it is best to use leather welding gloves or gardening gloves depending on the size of the species.
  • Use a towel or blanket to cover the animal’s whole body and scoop them into a box or carrier. This allows you to cover any dangerous parts and the darkness will calm the animal.
  • If possible, try to gently coax the animal into a box or carrier with a broom. Or, place a box over top of the animal and gently slide a flat piece of cardboard underneath the animal.
  • Once contained, keep the animal in a warm, dark, and quiet place. Do not attempt to give food or water. Depending on the injury, this can be detrimental to the animal. Animals can go 24 hours or more without food and water, even babies. If you cannot get to the wildlife hospital immediately, place the box on a heating pad set on low or fill a water bottle with warm water and place it in the box.
  • Please contact our hospital at 856-983-3329 ext. 107 for more species-specific advice.