The UTC-IWR
Mission Statement
To provide appropriate and humane
medical care and temporary sanctuary to injured or orphaned Tennessee
wildlife with the intent to release the animals back in to the
wild.
To serve the University by encouraging educational and career
opportunities in environmental science and supporting scientific
investigations relating to forest management, rehabilitation
and the conservation of wildlife and its habitats
To raise public awareness of human
impact on wildlife through education in conservation and habitat
preservation.
To provide a community service to
metropolitan Chattanooga as a resource of information and assistance
regarding wildlife issues. |

WHY REHABILITATE WILDLIFE?
The majority of wild
animals brought to rehabilitators, whether sick, injured or orphaned,
are the result of human interaction. Autos, chemicals, yard equipment,
domestic pets and such present a tremendous hazard to wildlife
of all types. As humans continue to build on previously wild
habitats. the number of animals impacted increases exponentially.
Rehabilitation efforts allow us to provide a second chance for
the rescoupd animals. In addition to returning animals to the
wild, rehabilitators have a unique opportunity to educate the
public about wildlife and impart an appreciation for native habitats.
It is through learning how to co-exist with our wild neighbors
that humans will reduce the negative impact on our native animals,
both large and small.
WHAT
IT TAKES TO REHABILITATE
Wildlife rehabilitation is a difficult task which goes way beyond
compassion for "cute little animals". It requires specialized
knowledge of the animals and their natural habitat, an extraordinary
amount of time and dedication to the animals, special relationships
with veterinarians and scientists, and adequate facilities and
funding. State and Federal permits are required to work with
all native species to protect both the animals and the people
working with them.
All of The UTC Institute of Wildlife Rehabilitation staff have
backgrounds working with wildlife and all rehabilitation volunteers
are trained and supervised in accordance with Tennessee regulations.
If you are interested in learning about rehabilitation and volunteering
with the institute. please contact Debbie Lipsey, Director of
Wildlife Rehabilitation at (423) 821- 0626
What to do if you find an animal
that you think
needs assistance
Determine if the
animal truly needs help. Many people "rescoup" animals
that really do not need to be rescoupd. When in doubt call us
first. 423-821-0626
Wear gloves and gently place the animal in a cardboard box or
dog carrier with a soft towel in the bottom. Cover container
with a towel or blanket and place the animal in a dark QUIET
room away from pets and children.
Place one half of the container on a heating pad on LOW setting.
DO NOT FEED THE ANIMAL or give it water. Feeding or hydrating
an animal incorrectly can cause illness or death.
Call us as soon as possible to arrange transfer to our facilities.
Leave a message if necessary. The answering machine is checked
regularly. Someone will call you back soon. 423-821-0626 |
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