Local wildlife rescue to soon close its doors

A red fox is pictured at the Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in this undated image. (Source: Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre/Facebook)

A local wildlife rescue will soon close its doors after nearly two decades of helping thousands of animals.

In a social media post on Thursday, Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre announced this summer will be its final operating season as it faces challenges related to volunteers, funding, increased costs, staffing and donations.

The centre said moving forward it will no longer be taking in any new animals and will focus on the wildlife already in its care. It added it will continue to rely on community support to care for its patients, especially its baby foxes which require a specialized diet.

“This has been an incredibly difficult decision, but we are proud of the work we have done and the effort we have made to help injured and orphaned wildlife over the years,” the rescue said.

Anyone who comes across injured or orphaned wildlife is asked to contact Wildlife Haven, Manitoba Conservation or the Bridgwater Veterinary Hospital.

In a statement, Wildlife Haven thanked the Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for its dedication to caring for animals.

Though Wildlife Haven said it’s well-positioned to continue serving Manitoba’s wildlife, it notes it’s also facing unprecedented demand and is in need of additional support.

“We know Manitobans care deeply about wildlife,” said Zoé Nakata, executive director of Wildlife Haven.

“The support we receive from volunteers, donors and community partners is what makes this work possible. As demand continues to grow, that support is more important than ever.”