ANIMAL TRANSPORT TIPS

HOW TO TRANSPORT BABY MAMMALS

BABIES

  • All babies will need a ‘pouch’ of some sort to feel comfortable.  A winter hat works well for this, or a pillowcase, washcloth, or even a sock depending on how small the babies are.  Place the babies, gently, in the makeshift pouch and then place the pouch into a shoebox, plastic tote, insulated lunch box, or any small container with a lid. 

  • (Picture E)Hairless babies need a heat source immediately. You’ll need a heating pad, set to medium, place under HALF of the shoebox or small container so the babies can get away from the heat source if they really want to.  If you do not have a heating pad, you can make something similar in just two minutes.  Simply take a men’s long sock, or even a knee high nylon, and fill the sock with dry rice – any kind, just make sure it is uncooked.  Microwave the sock filled with rice for 1-3 minutes until it is very warm to the touch but not scalding.  Cover the now warm rice sock with a small hand towel or washcloth.  Place the rice sock in the shoebox or other small container under the babies, making sure that they are not directly on top of the sock.  Sometimes they will crawl on top of the sock and that’s okay, but make sure they have the option to get away from it if it gets too hot.  You’ll need to reheat the rice sock once an hour or so, until you can deliver the animal to a rehabber.  

  • DO NOT FEED THEM ANYTHING!  Babies often aspirate fluids and unless you are prepared to save them once they aspirate, and treat the impending pneumonia from aspirating, do not feed them.

JUVENILES/ADULTS

  • Animals, with eyes open, can be placed on a non-terry cloth towel in a box of appropriate size. A pet carrier, large plastic tote, or any kind of cage will work well too.  

  • They DO NOT NEED a heat source, but if you have them for longer than a few hours, provide them with heat of some kind. 

  • Make sure the box you place them in has a lid and that it is taped or secured but still allows them air to breathe.  

  • If babies have their eyes open, place a small lid or coaster with water into the ‘cage’ you are keeping them in.  DO NOT FORCE THEM TO DRINK WATER!!  Just make sure it is available to them if they want it.  Do not use a bowl, they can accidentally drown themselves.  We know it seems unlikely, but unfortunately it has happened.  A jar lid, coaster, or Tupperware lid works perfectly for a temporary water dish.