westernplainsanimalrefuge.org

Ever since I was little, I have always found compassion for animals in need. Unlike humans, animals have no voice. When they are hurt or alone, there is often no one to comfort them or to make sure they are OK. And so that's how I see my role. I make sure those animals have a voice.

How often do we see animals or birds dead or injured and think, "That's just how things are"? My question has always been, "What gives us the right to decide that one species is worth saving, while others should just 'deal with it'?"

Is it because we have a "use" for some animals? They may provide companionship. Maybe we need them for particular jobs. Maybe we just feel guilty about letting certain kinds of animals suffer.

At any given time, we house animals recovering from injuries. Some, like cats, dogs and horses, are animals most of us would help at any given time. Others, like rabbits, raccoons, birds and skunks, have a more vague spot in our minds. They're categorized as untouchables. But they do serve a purpose in our ecology. And, again, I ask, who are we to decide that they should just suffer when they are injured?

So until I have a better answer for that question, I'll continue to do all I can to help all animals, big and small, cuddly and prickly. And I think the world would be a better place if everyone lent a hand where it was needed ... just because they can.


To see our latest wild animal rescues, visit us at www.westernplainsanimalrefuge.org and click on "Success Stories."