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Technique of wrapping mice in toilet paper, known as the "burrito method."

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Blog 1: Research in caring for Neonatal Mice

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Blog 1: Research in caring for Neonatal Mice

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A few weeks into my placement at the wildlife rehabilitation centre, a litter of 4-day-old baby mice that had been surrendered after a dog disturbed their nest. As the only volunteer present that day, alongside the hospital manager, I was tasked with completing their intake and triage.

Upon initial assessment, I checked the mice for any injuries and placed them in an incubator to keep them warm. At this age, the babies were still blind, deaf, and hairless. I was initially uncertain about the proper care procedures for animals this small, so I liaised with my manager. One of the first and most crucial aspects of their care was feeding them every two hours. However, I quickly found out that there is no specific milk formula available for baby mice, therefore I had to create a suitable replacement. Through collaboration with other wildlife rescues and extensive research on the internet, I developed a formula made from kitten milk mixed with critical care powder. There were also other obstacles such as the syringes we had access to were too large for the tiny mice. I learned that another rehabilitation centre had successfully used small paintbrushes dipped in milk to feed neonatal mice and other baby animals. This thankfully solved our problems.

Given the fragility of the situation, I made sure to research safe feeding techniques and seek guidance from my manager to avoid the risk of aspiration. Additionally, I also learned that baby mice at this stage required stimulation to urinate and defecate, a process typically performed by the mother. After consulting my manager, we determined that using a warm Q-tip was the most effective method.

During my research, I also discovered that improper feeding or overfeeding could lead to bloating or malnourishment, conditions that can be fatal. To prevent this, my manager and I established a feeding schedule based on the body weight of the mice. This was critical to ensuring their survival and development.

As the mice were too young to be left unsupervised overnight, I made the decision to provide offsite rehabilitation for more intensive care. As the mice grew, they became more active, therefore I had to discover new methods to hold them still while feeding without causing injury. I researched a technique of wrapping them securely in toilet paper, known as the "burrito method."

Reflecting on this experience, I realize how much I learned about neonatal animal care. Initially, I felt out of my depth, however, through research and enquiries I was able to develop a comprehensive care plan. One of the most significant challenges was finding a way to feed such tiny, fragile animals when the standard tools at the hospital were not small enough. This experience taught me the importance of thinking creatively and being resourceful, such as using paintbrushes to feed the mice.

Throughout this experience, I also learned the importance of ongoing collaboration and support from experienced colleagues. My manager’s guidance was invaluable, and working together with other wildlife rescues expanded my knowledge. This experience solidified my passion for wildlife rehabilitation, and I am now more confident in my ability to care for vulnerable animals. It also reinforced the importance of continuous learning in this field.

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Myself demonstrating a small paintbrush dipped in milk being used for hand feeding.

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Duckling standing with the splint I made for the first time

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Blog 2: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving in wildlife rehabilitation of a Mallard Duckling

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Blog 2: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving in wildlife rehabilitation of a Mallard Duckling

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During my placement I encountered a challenging case that required critical thinking and problem-solving skills. A mallard duckling was brought into the hospital, unable to walk. Upon completing the triage, I discovered that the duckling’s foot appeared malformed. The duckling was unable to stand or walk, significantly reducing its chances of release. I needed to find a way to support and stabilize the duckling’s foot to help it regain its mobility. The malformed foot seemed to indicate metabolic bone disease, a common issue in wildlife caused by poor diet or insufficient UV exposure. The immediate concern was the duckling’s inability to walk, which significantly affected its ability to feed and thrive in the hospital environment.

I decided to create a splint using materials that could provide support without causing further harm. I cut a small piece of cardboard to the size of the duckling’s foot. Once I had developed the structure for the splint, I then found a way to secure it onto the duckling’s foot without causing irritation or injury to the sensitive skin. Initially, I considered using vet wrap which is commonly used in animal care. However, I was concerned about the risk of skin irritation, particularly because ducklings are often exposed to water, which could dampen the tape and cause discomfort or even skin damage as it is very strong.

After exploring the options available at the hospital, I decided to use a “medihoney” dressing initially, a product I had used previously in other cases. This dressing, made from a honey-based fabric, is soft, non-stick, and has antibacterial properties, making it ideal for preventing irritation and supporting the natural healing process. The medihoney dressing would not only protect the duckling's foot but also help maintain the health of the skin and tissue during the healing process.

Once the splint was in place, I ensured that the duckling received the proper care, including a nutrient-rich diet, calcium supplements, and exposure to a UV lamp to aid in the healing of its bones. Throughout the following week, I observed the duckling’s progress closely. As expected, the splint provided the necessary support to allow the duckling to be able to stand and walk on its foot. This case was an invaluable learning experience that significantly contributed to my growth as a problem solver and wildlife rehabilitator.

An important skill developed during this experience was the ability to solve problems effectively. Reflecting on this experience, I realize how crucial problem-solving and resourcefulness are. It was a reminder that we often work with limited resources in a charity situation, therefore it’s essential to be adaptable and creative when designing treatment plans. As I continue my future work in wildlife rehabilitation, I am better equipped to handle future situations that require quick thinking and creative solutions. This case will remain a valuable lesson in the importance of innovative thinking, effective problem solving, and using the resources available to provide the best care possible.

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Blog 3: Personal Autonomy and Resilience when dealing with the public

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Blog 3: Personal Autonomy and Resilience when dealing with the public

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I had to professionally and empathetically deal with a euthanasia situation where I had to tell a member of the public who was unhappy with our decision that once an animal is handed over then all care is made at the discretion of the hospital and is all made in the animal’s best interest. It is often difficult for them to understand and they can become quite upset and emotional, to deal with this situation and get them to understand I talked them through our process from triaging to making the decision to checking with co-worker to actually euthanising them. This seemed to help them feel better.

In my role at an animal hospital, I have encountered a variety of challenging and emotional situations that have required me to demonstrate professionalism, empathy, and resilience. One aspect of my work involves triaging animals brought in by members of the public, often in distressing and upsetting conditions. As part of my responsibilities, I assess the animal’s injuries, gather information from the finder about the circumstances of the incident, and decide on the appropriate course of action. While our hospital always prioritizes recovery and release of the animal, there are some occasions where the injuries are so severe that euthanasia becomes the most compassionate option.

After performing an initial assessment and coming to the conclusion that this was the kinder option, I collaborated with other staff members and a vet to ensure that euthanasia was the right decision, and only after allowing the animal adequate time to stabilise. However, once the decision has been made, it is often met with strong emotional reactions from the finder, who can be upset or even angry.

One particular instance stands out where a finder, upon being told that the animal would be euthanized, demanded that I return the animal to them, offering to care for it themselves. In this situation, I had to remain calm and professional while empathising with their grief. I walked them through our process, from the triage stage to the final decision-making, explaining that the decision was made with the animal's welfare and future in mind, which seemed to help alleviate some of their distress.

This experience has played a significant role in shaping my resilience, personal autonomy, communication, and emotional intelligence, which are all key aspects of my personal and professional development.

In the future, I plan to further continue to develop both my emotional resilience and communication skills, ensuring that I can continue to handle difficult conversations with professionalism and empathy. Ultimately, these experiences have given me the tools to navigate the emotionally complex aspects of animal care with confidence.

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My first self organised and operated stall for the animal hospital rising funds with my little brother as our fox mascot

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Blog 4: Leadership and Professional Understanding running charity events

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Blog 4: Leadership and Professional Understanding running charity events

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One fulfilling and valuable experience that contributed to leadership development has been my involvement in charity fundraising for the animal hospital through running stalls at events such as the Cheshire Show, local school fairs and on our hospital site. These events allowed me to develop and demonstrate my leadership skills and professional understanding of the industry. As a representative of the wildlife hospital, my responsibilities included organizing the logistics of the stalls, such as collecting items for sale from the hospital, transporting them to the event locations, and setting up the stalls to ensure they were engaging and informative.

In addition to the stall setup, a crucial part of my role was interacting with the public; engaging with them to raise awareness about the hospital’s work, answering questions, and sharing insights into the industry. This gave me an opportunity to apply my industry knowledge and leadership abilities in a practical context.

The most significant insight I gained from this experience is the importance of adaptability in leadership. When running these stalls, when things didn’t go to plan; whether it is the card machine not working or having complex conversations with the public. I quickly realized that successful leadership isn’t just about sticking to a plan, but about being flexible and open to changing circumstances. This ability to adapt has become an invaluable skill, especially in high-pressure situations where the ability to think on your feet can make all the difference.

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Blog 4: Halloween fundraising event picture

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Blog 4: Halloween fundraising event picture

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This image shows leadership and professional understanding through providing informative talks on our barn owl Shimba to families throughout the event while also offering pictures with the owls and a chance to stroke her.

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Blog 5: Teamwork and Collaboration during managers absence 

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Blog 5: Teamwork and Collaboration during managers absence 

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One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned while working at the animal hospital is effective teamwork. A recent example comes to mind when my manager was needed offsite for the day. I was asked to work with a team of five volunteers, four of whom were brand new and on their very first day. It could have been overwhelming, but instead, it became a perfect example of how good teamwork and clear communication can ensure everything is completed to a good standard.

Before we began, one other regular volunteer and I spent time discussing the tasks ahead and the best way to divide our efforts. We quickly realised that the most efficient approach would be to split roles based on our strengths. I focused on training and supporting the new volunteers, answering their questions, explaining procedures, and helping them build confidence in their roles. Meanwhile, the regular volunteer took the lead on feeding and cleaning routines for the other animals; a task they were already confident and efficient in. By making this simple but strategic decision, we ensured that everything was covered without overloading anyone and by the end of the day, all the work was completed, and the new volunteers had a positive, first experience and seemed to learn quickly.

Welcoming and integrating new volunteers is a big part of what we do. It’s always a rewarding experience, and something I view as a shared responsibility. While I provide guidance and feedback, it’s the collective spirit of the team that really makes it work. When we all take part in helping others feel included, we build a stronger, more cohesive environment.

Delegating tasks thoughtfully is another essential aspect of effective teamwork. By understanding the individual strengths and capabilities of each team member, we can divide work in a way that ensures everything runs smoothly. Whether it’s an experienced colleague taking charge, or a new volunteer helping with patient intake, every role contributes to the overall success of the day. Trusting one another and aligning our efforts helps us stay focused on what really matters; providing the best possible care for the animals.

Ultimately, teamwork at the animal hospital is built on mutual respect, shared goals, and a willingness to adapt. Whether we’re managing a busy shift, training new volunteers, or handling emergencies, working together allows us to provide the best experience not just for the animals in our care, but for every person who walks through our doors.

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All my own work documenting what I do primarily in the wildlife hospital however this does include animals from the Reaseheath mini Zoo and information about African wild animals I have worked with/rescued in Namibia.

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Animal rescue ⛑️ 📍Cheshire, UK (animals.rescue.rehab) • Instagram photos and videos

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Animal rescue ⛑️ 📍Cheshire, UK (@animals.rescue.rehab) • Instagram photos and videos

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908 Followers, 2,251 Following, 70 Posts - See Instagram photos and videos from Animal rescue ⛑️ 📍Cheshire, UK (@animals.rescue.rehab)

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Link to a post I made on the Lower moss wood official Facebook 

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Link to a post I made on the Lower moss wood official Facebook 

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This shows my teamwork and collaboration skills by showing part of the stall I set up independently for the Cheshire show.

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Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

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Link to a post I made for the Lower moss wood Facebook 

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Link to a post I made for the Lower moss wood Facebook 

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This shows reaserch as it discusses two baby Tawny owls that I assisted in hand rearing getting tagged by the BTO prepping to be released. I did some research as I didn't know how to hand feed and I was unsure why the BTO ringed them prior to release.

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Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

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A vlog I made for the official  Facebook 

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A vlog I made for the official  Facebook 

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https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1874904943338591

Through creating a detailed vlog about the daily care of our resident goats, I demonstrated leadership by educating and inspiring others to support our work. This project also reflected my understanding, not only of animal welfare, but of how to communicate compassion and resource needs in a way that resonates with people.

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1.6K views · 52 reactions | Ronnie and Reggie | 🐐 After the popularity of our last Ronnie and Reggie video we thought we would share a little more of them. 

🐐 This clip is videoed and narrated by Mia,... | By Lower Moss Wood Nature Reserve & Wildlife Hospital | Facebook

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🐐 After the popularity of our last Ronnie and Reggie video we thought we would share a little more of them. 

🐐 This clip is videoed and narrated by Mia,...

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After the shift discussed above, I received a message from the other senior volunteer I had worked alongside that day. With the sender’s permission, I can share that they expressed how smoothly the day had gone with me working in the ICU training the new starters and her working outside sorting all the animals. She highlights how effectively we had split the workload and how well everything came together. She also praised how I had dealt with the training of the new volunteers and commented on the strong teamwork we demonstrated throughout the day. It was a reassuring and encouraging message to receive, and it really reinforced how collaboration, teamwork, clear communication and support can turn a potentially challenging day into a successful and rewarding one for everyone involved.