What should you do if you find an injured animal?

When you encounter an injured animal, notifying a wildlife rescue or professional is the best course of action because these individuals are trained to handle such situations. They have the expertise, equipment, and resources to assess the animal's condition properly and provide the necessary medical attention.

Attempting to assist the animal on your own can often cause more harm than good, as you may not be aware of the animal's specific injuries or behavior, which can lead to further injury to both you and the animal. Leaving the animal alone might seem like a safe option, but it may not receive the care it needs to recover. Taking the animal home is dangerous for both you and the animal, as wild animals can carry diseases and may behave unpredictably when stressed.

In summary, contacting a professional ensures that the animal receives the appropriate care while keeping you safe and minimizing further stress or injury to the animal.