Rehabber, Hospice, or Both?

My wife and I have been rehabbing wildlife now for close to 5 years. We've focused mostly on squirrels, but have occasionally rehabbed other wildlife too.

One of the truths of this labor of love is that many of the animals we care for will not make it. As such it's important to realize that despite all my efforts to rehab them and return them to the wild, that I also play another important role - hospice caregiver.

Many animals come into our care pretty beat up with some issues that are just not known. We work closely with our veterinary staff to diagnose and treat them, but sometimes it's just not meant to be. Although I am saddened when we are unable to rehab them, I do get solace in knowing that I've provided them with a quite and warm place to live out their remaining days.

I accept nature as it is and consider myself to be a part of it, but it is a harsh environment at times and it is nice to provide comfort to some of the animals so that they may pass in peace.