Rescue wildlife, or have a life?

Many times, rehabilitators are faced with difficult decisions. One of those common decisions is take a vacation …or take in these babies that need me? Usually, you can’t have both.

Squirrel Friends is on a mission to bring more unity to the wildlife rehab community. This way, we hope to find a balance where we can continue to help wildlife in need, and also take the time needed to spend time with family, explore somewhere new, or simply get away and take a break.

In February 2023 the NW Observer published an article featuring rehabilitators located in High Point, NC, Cindi and Mike Ringholz. In this article, which is shared below, they explain the complexity of living around rehabilitating wildlife. How your home changes, how your priorities change, the challenges that come with non-releasable animals.

The truth of the matter is, we do not have enough rehabilitators for the amount of wildlife in need. This is probably due to the fact that it requires an apprenticeship, training, licensing and that you do need to plan your entire life around rehabilitating. Although it is very rewarding, it is a very big sacrifice. We hope to feature other rescues and rehabilitators, so that we can grow our support network and work out a way to cover each other’s responsibilities when the time comes to take a break.

Annette Joyce, “Couple trades vacation for squirrel rehabilitation.” NW Observer, Feb 2023, 14-15.

Cindi Ringholz 336-456-4684