Are vets duty bound to deal with wildlife casualties?
Over the last 20 years, the attempted rehabilitation of injured wild animals has become widespread. Many of those involved are members of the public with varying levels of experience and training. Veterinarians have often assisted in such activities to some degree, and there are several reasons why this occurs and will continue despite the usual absence of any financial remuneration. Many vets do not mind offering their assistance because: 1. Professional ethics dictate that a veterinarian should provide attention to an animal of any species in an emergency. 2. Legislation in some countries specifies that only a registered veterinarian can carry out certain tasks, making the profession obliged to provide a service. 3. Treating wildlife can be good publicity for veterinary practices, via local newspaper articles and TV or radio mentions. 4. As more and more studies reveal links between pet and wildlife diseases, knowledge of wildlife is increasingly important if vets are to understand t
