If you should come upon an injured wild animal, take extra caution; wild animals are typically fearful of humans and will try to escape. This can cause injury to yourself as well as additional injury to the animal.

Approach slowly and talk soothingly. Try to assess the situation and determine the extent of the injuries. Be aware that rabies is always a threat and wild animals, particularly skunks, foxes and raccoons, have a high incidence of the virus. You may think a wild animal is injured when it could be in the final and contagious stages of rabies.

It is best not to restrain a wild animal. Capture by placing in a box or carrier is a good idea. For those animals too large for a box or carrier, cover with a blanket or towel and reduce some fear by keep the animal in a darkened environment.

Contact an area wildlife rehabilitation or rescue organization, conservation department, veterinary hospital, animal shelter or police officer for assistance in capturing and transporting injured wildlife.