Helping Animals Safely: What You Need to Know
We know how much you care about animals—and we are truly thankful for your kindness and willingness to help when they are in need. There are many simple, effective ways to make a difference, but it is just as important to do so safely—for your own wellbeing and the animal’s.
Before you step in to help, take a moment to assess the situation. Never put yourself in danger to assist an animal. If the animal is in or near a hazardous area, the best thing you can do is call for professional help.
Avoid trying to rescue animals in or near:
• Clifftops or steep drops
• Deep or fast-moving water
• Frozen ponds or icy surfaces
• Heights (like rooftops or trees)
• Deep drains or sewers
• Confined or hard-to-access spaces
• Roads or train tracks
In these cases, contact us or your local animal rescue service or emergency service.
Your safety matters—and staying safe means, you will be able to help more animals in the long run.
Handling an Injured or Wild Animal: Stay Safe and Keep them Calm.
If you come across an animal that needs help, here are some important steps to follow to protect both you and the animal
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Keep your distance. Minimise contact and try to handle the animal at arm’s length whenever possible.
• Avoid close face-to-face interaction. Never lean over or place your face near the animal—they may be scared, stressed, or in pain.
• Use a towel or blanket. Gently cover the animal to help calm them and to create a barrier between you and their claws or teeth.
• Don’t go it alone. If possible, ask someone to assist you—an extra pair of hands or moral support can make a big difference.
• Contain them securely. Place the animal gently in a well-ventilated box or carrier. Keep the environment calm and quiet.
• Keep them outdoors. Do not bring wild animals into your home or any enclosed indoor space.
• Travel with caution. When transporting, place the container away from you (such as in the back of the car) and keep windows slightly open to improve airflow.
• Call ahead. If you are taking the animal to a vet, ring in advance so they can prepare and give specific instructions.
Afterwards
Wash any used towels, blankets, or clothing in a hot wash. Dispose of any single-use items safely and disinfect anything else the animal may have touched—this includes things like glasses, car interiors, or gloves.
FAQ'S
What should I do if I find an injured or orphaned wild animal?
Do not try to care for it yourself. Contact us immediately. Keep the animal in a warm, quiet, and dark place away from pets and people until help arrives
How do I know if a baby animal is truly orphaned?
Many young animals (like fawns, baby birds, or rabbits) are often left alone while parents forage or hunt. Call us before intervening — we’ll help determine if the animal needs rescue.
What species do you rescue?
We specialize in native wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Do you charge for rescues?
No our services are free of charge, though donations are always appreciated to help us continue our work.
Can I keep a wild animal as a pet?
No. It is illegal and unethical to keep wild animals as pets. They have specific dietary, social, and medical needs that cannot be met in a home environment.
How can I volunteer?
Click the Volunteer button in the header and fill in the form.
What happens to the animals after you rescue them?
We take them to Wildlife Rescue Centre's who will rehabilitate them with the goal of releasing them back into the wild.
What if I fnd an injured deer in the road?
If you find yourself involved in a collision with a deer, please follow these important steps:
Pull over safely. Report the incident. Call the police on 999 to report the collision. They will handle the situation, including any necessary action regarding the deer.
Do not approach the deer. Injured deer can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
What areas do you cover?
Surrey
Hampshire
West Sussex
London
If we’re not in your area, please still get in touch.
We work closely with a network of trusted organisations and may be able to direct you to someone who can help.