Documentation for Wildlife Cases

Proper recordkeeping is vital. Don't become complacent or lessen your recordkeeping standards just because an animal is a wild species, exotic pet species, or a hybrid.

• Owned animals

  In addition to the same information that should be gathered from the owners of traditional domestic animals, owned wild species, exotic pet species, or hybrids may have more items for which documentation is needed. Examples include:
  • Federal or state issued licenses or permits to possess and transport the animals
  • Certificates of veterinary inspection
  • Genetic pedigrees (especially with hybrids of endangered species)
  • Permanent animal identification (e.g., leg band, microchip, tattoo, tag)

• Unowned animals

  Check with your state wildlife management agency and local wildlife rehabilitators for the information they need you to collect when a Good Samaritan brings wildlife into your practice. Some of the basics include:
  • Name and contact information of the Good Samaritan.
  • Location at which the animal was found
  • Date and approximate time the animal was found
  • Reason(s) why the person thought the animal needed help
  • If others have been exposed to the animal
  • What care if any the person has given the animal
  • Any identification, tracking device, data transmitter, etc.