IAR has launched an urgent appeal for funds to support the work of its wildlife rescue center in Costa Rica after Veterinary Director Francisco Sanchez issued a desperate plea for help buying lifesaving equipment.
During 2022 the number of wildlife patients admitted to the center for treatment rose rapidly and now, less than two months into 2023, the influx of sick, injured and orphaned animals is still at an alarming level.
“It’s an incredibly busy time for our staff,” says Fran. “We’re taking huge numbers of injured wildlife into our care. The team is working flat out and our equipment is being pushed to its limits in our efforts to give every animal the best chance of survival.”
Animals are arriving with severe burns after being electrocuted by uninsulated power cables, while others have been hit by cars or attacked by other animals.
Fran adds: “It’s heartbreaking to see an animal lose its fight for life and know that, with better equipment, it probably could have survived. If we can just raise enough money to buy these few essential items, I know we can save more animals’ lives which is what we’re here for!”
His team needs to raise $10,000 for four vital pieces of equipment:
Incubators to keep very young orphaned animals warm and help them through the early, critical stages of their recovery without their mothers.
Monitors to gather important information about an animal’s condition as quickly as possible and without causing a frightened wild animal unnecessary stress through too much human contact.
A gas anesthesia machine to carry out surgeries safely and effectively.
A dart gun to assist in the rescue of animals that are out of reach, often in the tree canopy. This will allow the team to approach these animals safely and doubtless increase the number of successful live rescues.
“Our center is funded entirely by the generosity of the public,” Fran concludes. “I know times are tough for everyone just now but if you can spare even a few dollars, it will make a massive difference. Thank you in advance to everyone who supports us with whatever you can afford. As the saying goes, every little helps – and it could mean the difference between life and death for an injured animal!”