"a bi-monthly journal of environmental news and commentary..."

Help Build an Olympia Animal Hospital

Submitted by Michael Reed, Olympic Wildlife Rescue

For the past fifteen years, small and gentle miracles have taken place every day of every season. Miracles within the web of life, and a belief that maintaining the diversity of that web of life is critical. Those small miracles are a daily occurrence at Olympic Wildlife Rescue, and it would be a tragedy to see them end.

Olympic Wildlife Rescue, a nonprofit organization, is located in McCleary and has a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and orphaned wildlife. Animals as small and delicate as hummingbirds to as large and powerful as a Roosevelt Elk are provided the best of care. Volunteers, supervised by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, donate countless hours of care to each animal. Medical procedures are also donated through a number of local veterinarians who give freely of their time and skills.

In a year's time, up to 2,000 animals are rescued, rehabilitated and released. Rescue services are provided in several counties, with more than 50 percent of the animals coming from Thurston County. Not surprisingly, most of the injured wildlife arriving at Olympic are there due to intentional cruelty or other human-related actions.

An important adjunct to our rescue work is the educational services offered through Olympic. As volunteer staffing and time will allow, educational programs are presented at area schools and retirement homes regarding the animals for which we care, and the importance of maintaining biodiversity.

At present, what this organization gives to the community is in jeopardy. It is in jeopardy due to the aged and crumbling state of the trailers that serve as the wildlife office, food preparation area, and hospital. But we can change that.

The Board of Directors has elected to construct a new office and hospital building this year. Approximately 60 percent of the funds needed to construct the building have been generated. The reality is that Olympic Wildlife Rescue must raise the remaining 40 percent in the next five months.

To build a hospital for injured and orphaned wildlife is a gentle dream. It is also one that offends none, and can uplift us all. Any contribution to assist Olympic Wildlife Rescue in constructing this dream would be deeply appreciated. Your contributions are tax deductible, and benefit the animals in your community. Please send your contributions to: Olympic Wildlife Rescue, Attn.: Building Fund, PO Box 7087, Olympia WA 98507-7087.

Back to Home page.