Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine
Tufts Wildlife Clinic
Tufts Wildlife Clinic

What To Do If You Found Sick or Injured Carnivores

If you find an injured or sick carnivore or large mammal (bobcat, coyote, fox, fisher, etc.), you should call one of the following numbers for assistance:

All of these animals have the potential to bite, scratch, or cause serious injury to yourself and other people.  All mammals are potential carriers of the rabies virus. Learn more about rabies-vector mammals.  If the animal appears to be alert, please don’t attempt to rescue yourself, call the numbers listed above.

If the animal is quiet, not moving quickly, and you have no other choice, please follow these protocols and exercise extreme caution:

Protect yourself

Wear gloves. When dealing with carnivores, a thick pair of work gloves, a thick jacket, and other personal protection can prevent injury. Do not ever use bare hands when helping mammals. Please be careful not to get bitten, licked, or scratched by the animal as well.

Prepare a Container

Have a sturdy box or animal carrier ready to contain the animal. Garbage cans, recycling bins, and plastic containers will work in a pinch, depending on the size of the animal. Make sure that you have a lid that will fit securely to the top of the box.

Capturing the Animal

Using a thick towel or blanket, quickly place this over the entire animal, secure the body and head inside the towel or blanket and immediately place the animal in an appropriately-sized, secure box or carrier. Make sure the box has holes in the lid.

Transport

For further assistance on where and how to transport, please refer to the "Who to Call for Help" section on this page.

During transport, keep the animal in the box or crate, keep the car quiet (radio off).