Help save the local wildlife!

As a group of concerned citizens of the Westchester community and our neighboring towns, we have come together to ask for monetary donations in order to rescue and rehabilitate some of the local wildlife that is in need of our help.

Many of you have followed along and have supported our journey and efforts to help some of the local wildlife around Westchester infected with mange.

It all started with "Coy" the coyote with mange that was trapped by Professional Trapper, Ty Holden with Wildlife Police Inc. and then, treated and released by Kane Area Rehabilitation and Education for Wildlife (KARE).

This poor animal was in terrible shape, but thanks to the efforts of this great organization and a few dedicated people, the coyote was able to get a second chance at life, hopefully one of happiness and freedom! She is a testament to what is possible with a little bit of compassion and medical attention. Learn more about K.A.R.E here: https://www.facebook.com/KAREforWildlife/

In the months that followed after rescuing "Coy" the coyote, we were notified that a fox had been spotted with mange around town, and was in terrible condition.

It is truly heartbreaking to see an animal suffering so badly.

And although we have a relationship with K.A.R.E. and Professional Trapper Ty Holden, their extraordinary efforts and the efforts of organizations like them require resources. It takes money and time to rehabilitate sick animals. This is where we all can help.

ALL funds go directly toward covering the costs of trapping, care, supplies, medical needs, and giving back where we can for time, services, & medical care of any of the local injured wildlife we help or try to help.

We move to establish the Westchester Wildlife Fund to be used to pay for professional trapping and rehabilitation services not only for the ailing foxes and coyote(s) that we were already able to rescue and help but for any additional wildlife that are in need.

It is evident that mange is spreading within our wildlife population.

Why should you care about a fox with mange?

Foxes are vital to our ecosystem. They control the rodent population and spread the seeds of fruit and vegetables they eat. Foxes mate for life and are doting parents and gentle members of our wildlife community despite the fact we infringed on their space. They pose no danger to people or pets. Learn more about foxes here: https://weilerwoodsforwildlife.com/red-foxes/.

However, mange does pose a threat to the health and well-being of the animals around us. It is a very contagious disease caused by mites that burrow under the skin, causing hair loss, scabs, crusting and severe itching. Mange can cause such extensive systemic damage that the afflicted animal's immune system weakens, leaving way for secondary infections to take hold. Eventually, they lose the ability to regulate their temperature or hunt for food. This causes them to starve, leading to organ failure and a slow, painful death. No living being deserves to meet this end, especially when there are lifesaving treatments available. Learn more about mange here: https://www.wildlifeonline.me.uk/articles/view/mange-in-the-red-fox

Please consider donating. Every dollar counts. Share this fundraiser link. Be vigilant about spotting and reporting wildlife in need. Let's share the responsibility of protecting our friends from the forest, the prairies, and our own backyards.

"Saving one animal won't change the world, but it will change the world for that one animal."