By late spring, yards, parks and trails are full of young wildlife. Fledgling birds hop across lawns, baby rabbits hide in shallow nests in the grass and, in some areas, fawns lie quietly in tall vegetation. For pets, especially dogs with strong prey drives and outdoor cats, these encounters can be tempting. A few habits help protect both wild animals and your pets.
Why young wildlife is so vulnerable
Many young animals rely on staying still and hidden to avoid predators. Fledgling birds, which have left the nest but cannot yet fly well, often spend time on the ground while their parents feed them nearby. Mother rabbits typically visit their nests only briefly, often around dawn and dusk, to avoid drawing predators. Deer may leave fawns alone for long periods while they forage. To a dog or cat, these quiet, hidden animals can look like easy targets.
Encounters can also be risky for pets. Wild animals may bite or scratch, and some carry parasites or diseases. Contact with wildlife is one more reason to keep your pet’s vaccinations current, including rabies, as your veterinarian recommends.
Protecting wildlife in your yard
- Walk the yard before letting dogs out. Look for nests in the grass, fledglings on the ground or animals near the fence line.
- Use a leash in the yard during nesting season if your dog tends to hunt.
- Fence off nests temporarily with an upside-down laundry basket propped up with enough space for the mother rabbit to get in, or with temporary garden fencing, until the young leave.
- Keep cats indoors or in an enclosed catio. Outdoor cats can be very effective hunters of birds and small animals.
- Mow carefully, checking for nests in tall grass before you start.
On walks and trails
Keep dogs leashed in areas where wildlife is active, and follow posted rules, which may include seasonal leash requirements to protect nesting birds or other animals. Teach and practice a solid “leave it” and recall, rewarding your dog generously for turning away from wildlife.
If your pet finds or catches a wild animal
Calmly remove your pet from the area. If a young animal is injured, or if your cat or dog has caught it, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your state wildlife agency for advice. Even animals that look unharmed can have injuries, and cat bites in particular can be dangerous to wildlife. Do not try to raise wild animals yourself. In many places it is illegal without a permit, and young animals have specialized needs.
Remember that many young animals that appear abandoned are not. A fledgling on the ground or a fawn alone in the grass is often exactly where its parents left it. When in doubt, watch from a distance and call a rehabilitator before acting.
If your pet was bitten or scratched by a wild animal, or you are unsure whether there was contact, call your veterinarian right away. Your vet can examine your pet, clean any wounds and advise on next steps.
