Treatment & rehabilitation of animals in the wild
The significance of capture and treatment of an injured or sick animal in the wild is primarily one of that individual’s welfare. The welfare implications of intervention should always be assessed at each stage. Unless an endangered species, it should be recognised that the rehabilitation of wildlife casualties will have little, if any, significant conservation value.
Under the RCVS Guide to Professional Conduct, a veterinary surgeon must:
- Treat all patients, of whatever species, humanely, with respect and with welfare as the primary consideration
- Provide 24-hour emergency cover, which means at least immediate first aid and pain relief