Finding an injured animal during your caravan trip can be a distressing experience, but with the right knowledge, you can help ensure the best possible outcome for the animal.

Knowing what to do in such a situation can make a huge difference, both for the animal and your peace of mind. 

Here’s a guide to help you handle these encounters with care and responsibility.

Assess the situation safely

The first step when you find an injured animal is to assess the situation from a safe distance. 

Ensure your own safety and that of your companions before approaching the animal. Injured animals can be unpredictable, and getting too close can be dangerous for both you and the animal.

If the animal is in immediate danger (for example lying on a busy road), try to move it to a safer location if it’s safe to do so. Use a blanket or towel to handle the animal gently, avoiding direct contact as much as possible.

Identify the type of animal

Knowing what type of animal you’re dealing with can help you decide the best course of action. 

Commonly encountered injured animals here in Australia include kangaroos, possums, birds, and reptiles. Each species requires different handling and care.

For example, marsupials like kangaroos may have a joey in their pouch, which could also need assistance. Birds, especially larger ones, can be tricky to handle due to their beaks and talons. 

If you’re unsure about the animal’s species, it’s better to err on the side of caution and seek professional help.

Contact local wildlife rescue services

Once you’ve assessed the situation and identified the animal, the next step is to contact local wildlife rescue services. Organisations like WIRES (Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service) or local wildlife rescue groups are equipped to handle injured animals.

Provide them with as much information as possible, including the animal’s location, condition, and any visible injuries. 

They can offer advice on what to do next and may send a volunteer to assist with the rescue. Here’s a few that can help: 

• Queensland: RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625)
• New South Wales: WIRES on 1300 094 737
• Victoria: Wildlife Victoria’s Emergency Response Service can be contacted on (03) 8400 7300
• Tasmania: Bonorong Wildlife Rescue on 0447 264 625 (all hours)
• South Australia: Fauna Rescue SA –( All wildlife)  (08) 8289 0896
• Western Australia: Wildcare Helpline on (61) 8 9474 9055
• Northern Territory: Darwin Wildlife Sanctuary – 0473 992 581

Provide immediate care – only if advised

In some cases, wildlife rescue may advise you to provide immediate care to the animal while waiting for help. This could include keeping the animal warm, offering water, or placing it in a quiet, dark place to reduce stress.

However, avoid feeding the animal or attempting to treat injuries unless specifically instructed to do so. 

Wildlife have specific dietary and medical needs, and improper care can do more harm than good.

Transporting the animal

If you’re asked to transport the animal to a rescue centre or vet, make sure to do so safely. 

Place the animal in a secure box or container with air holes and a soft lining. Keep the environment quiet and avoid unnecessary movements to reduce stress.

Make sure to drive carefully and avoid sudden stops or sharp turns. Make sure to take note of details of where and how you found the animal, as well as any observations about its condition to help professionals at rescue centres in their care.

What to keep in your car

Having an animal rescue kit in your car can be a real lifesaver if you come across an injured animal during your travels. Here’s what you should consider packing:

• Towels: Keep a few in different sizes to help wrap up small animals securely.
• Pillowcases: These can act as makeshift pouches, especially useful for carrying smaller creatures.
• Box: A cardboard box or a plastic basket provides a safe, contained space for the animal during transport.
• Torch: Essential for spotting animals or searching for them in low-light conditions.
• Disposable gloves: Protect your hands and the animal by using gloves, especially if there’s any blood or the animal is distressed.
• First aid kit: A basic first aid kit with bandages and antiseptic can help manage minor injuries until professional help is available.
• Scissors or pliers: Handy for cutting away any entanglements or removing obstacles that might be causing the animal distress.
• Pen and paper: Jot down the exact location where you found the animal, which is vital information for wildlife rescuers to return them to their habitat once they’re rehabilitated.

Know the law

It’s important to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding wildlife. In some cases, certain species may be protected, and handling them without proper authorisation could result in legal consequences.

Each state or territory has different rules and regulations. 

Always follow the advice of wildlife rescue services and avoid taking any actions that could put you or the animal at risk.

Prevention tips

To minimise the chances of encountering injured wildlife, take preventive measures such as driving slowly in wildlife-prone areas, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are most active. A few other things to keep in mind: 

• Keep your campsite clean: Animals are often attracted to food scraps and rubbish left around campsites. Ensure all food is stored securely and dispose of trash in designated bins to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Secure your caravan: Make sure your caravan is properly secured at night. Close windows and doors to prevent smaller animals from getting inside, where they might become trapped or injured.
• Educate yourself about local wildlife: Before setting out, learn about the types of wildlife you might encounter in the areas you’re visiting. Understanding their habits and habitats can help you take specific precautions to avoid encounters.