Promoting the understanding of nature and the protection of wildlife
How to warm a cold animal
Cold = death in nature - especially with babies
Warm slowly-
Here are three different options for warming animals:
1- Place a heating pad set on “low” half way UNDER the box - the heat needs to remain constant- if the heating pad has an automatic shut off then you will have to check every two hours to turn the heating pad back on.
2- Take a large sock and fill it half way with rice- tie a knot- heat- (not too hot! if the heat hurts you it will hurt them) - then place under a cloth by the animal -
this method of heating is temporary - reheat sock every 30-45 min.
3- Take plastic bottle filled with hot water and wrapped in a cloth in the box.
Containing the Animal
Pick up the animal gently with gloves on, or use a thick soft cloth.
Place animal in a small box with soft cloth on the bottom. Secure lid and create ventilation.
The containment box can be plastic or cardboard.
Place the box in a quiet, dark room. DO NOT give food or water.
It is very important to cover the box containing the animal, and keep it in a quiet place until you can transport it to a licensed rehabilitator or a veterinarian. It is very stressful for animals to be in captivity and they can chew through cardboard. Transport them as quickly and quietly as possible for a successful rescue.
