August 13, 2024
Raccoons Are Not Roommates: A Reminder from the OHS
Wildlife are not pets. Last month, Ottawa by-law discovered a raccoon named Diesel that was being kept as a pet in an apartment. Officers brought the raccoon to the OHS and we transferred him to Holly’s Haven Wildlife Rescue for rehabilitation. Sadly, many wild animals that have spent even limited time being kept captive are never able to adapt to living in the wild again.
Diesel’s story is an important reminder that keeping wildlife as pets is illegal and, more importantly, not in an animal’s best interest. Most are likely not able to meet the highly specialized day-to-day needs of a wild animal, provide housing that is even barely adequate or find appropriate veterinary care when the animal becomes sick. A wild animal who is kept as a pet is a captive. It is likely to face significant suffering whether from unmet physical and psychological needs, untreated sickness or injury or from being abandoned outdoors with no survival skills.
I am extremely grateful the OHS and our partners can work together to weave a safety net for animals like Diesel. Wild animals brought to the OHS often are too sick or injured to be rehabilitated and humane euthanasia is necessary to prevent further suffering. Through our partnerships, there are options for wild animals who may have a healthy future.
The best place for a wild animal is in their natural habitat, and this thinking is essential when we consider our relationships with wild animals in our neighbourhoods and community. Wild animals are best admired from afar — and this includes baby wildlife. It’s not uncommon for someone to see a baby animal and believe the animal needs help, however most human intervention tragically leads to greater suffering.
Preventing unwanted encounters with wildlife also protects animals in our community. This includes sealing entry points that would allow an animal into your home, securing garbage bins and bird feeders, and not leaving out pet food.
Wildlife belongs in the wild. We can do best for our wild neighbours by respecting their habitat and taking steps to live in harmony and avoid unwanted encounters.
Our community cares about wildlife. Together we can make sure wild animals live their best lives.
Sharon Miko
President & CEO