For most of us, summer is a season for sunshine and relaxation. For animal rescue services, it’s also baby season.

Between February and October — but especially in the summer — you’re much more likely to come across baby animals that appear sick, injured, or abandoned. Our advice: Trust the pros.

Meet Enchanted Forest Wildlife Rescue

Enchanted Forest Wildlife rehabilitates orphaned, sick, and injured animals before releasing them back to their native habitats. They also educate locals about wildlife through animal ambassadors, early educational resources, and volunteer opportunities.

Plus, with their newly gifted sanctuary in Madison County, our ecological community is only looking brighter. Ask how you can donate old comforters, pet supplies, and anything else you have lying around that could save an animal’s life.

Never guess when it comes to wildlife care. Note that Enchanted Forest can’t accept birds and is not accepting new intakes at the moment — but they’ll direct you to the proper channels. Call (859) 809-3397 and leave a detailed message. But before you do…

Assess the situation

Many animals brought into wildlife rehabilitation centers aren’t actually abandoned. An animal displaying no indicators of distress or injury may just be waiting for mom. If the animal is bleeding or obviously injured, it’s time to get the experts involved.

Be mindful of the animal’s well-being

Don’t act immediately when you’ve determined an animal is abandoned. Human contact stresses the animal and could lead to injury and disease (to you and the animal). Human food or improper feeding techniques can also cause harm. Keep a close eye, be patient, and consult Enchanted Forest or another licensed rehabilitator.

At this point, you’re in good hands. Follow their instructions to safely bring in the animal, and go cash in on your good deed for the day. Mother Nature thanks you.