Dear Volunteers,
It is with a heavy heart that I share unfortunate news. We were required to euthanize an opossum at the request of the Public Health Unit. This was an animal we had raised since infancy—one that, biologically, did not pose a rabies risk. However, decisions regarding wildlife are often made by individuals who may not have the same level of knowledge about these animals as we do.
This is a heartbreaking reminder of why we stress the importance of following all Procyon Wildlife protocols at all times. Bite gloves must be worn for every single animal, no exceptions—no matter how small or how long they have been in our care. These animals are wild, and bites can have serious, even fatal, consequences.
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act, if an animal bite is reported to the staff at Procyon and we fail to act on it, there can be serious legal and financial consequences. If an animal bite is not reported:
- Staff members can face a fine of up to $500,000 and/or up to 12 months of imprisonment.
- Directors and Officers of Procyon Wildlife can face fines up to $1,500,000 and/or up to 12 months of imprisonment.
- Procyon Wildlife itself can face a fine of up to $2,000,000.
To ensure everyone’s safety and compliance with the law:
- Always use caution when handling animals, especially those showing signs of stress or aggression.
- Wear appropriate protective gear when working with high-risk species.
- If bitten, report the incident immediately to a supervisor so the proper documentation and medical steps can be taken.
Your diligence in preventing bites and following protocols is crucial—not only for your safety but for the protection of everyone at Procyon Wildlife. Our protocols exist to protect both our volunteers and the animals we care for.
Please continue to follow them diligently to ensure the best possible outcomes for everyone. Thank you for your commitment and understanding.
Debra Spilar,
Executive Director/Custodian