westernplainsanimalrefuge.org

Each year, we receive a growing number of baby cottontail deer who have been abandoned or orphaned. Thanks to your donations, we have built a new deer pen specially for these beautiful creatures. The pen protects them from predators while providing an environment similar to their own in the wild. We feed them, treat any medical problems they may have, then release them as soon as they are old enough to fend for themselves.

Read about a recent deer release at Western Plains Animal Refuge.

We received two fawns in the last week, who have joined two other fawns we've gotten in the last month or so. They're all happily growing and playing in the new pen.

Soon, we'll release them near a stream and away from houses and roads. They'll be able to make their way, and their second chance will come thanks to the donations we've received that allow us to do this work.

Read about how donations are making a difference HERE.

Check out some of our other wildlife success stories!

We're often asked why it's so important to save these wild animals. Not too long ago, we blogged about this. It's been one of our most viewed blogs, and I'd like to print it again here:

The Why of Wildlife Rescue

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.