
Wildlife Rehabilitation
This page describes licensed wildlife rehabilitation work done by a state‑licensed individual and is not an indication that Boulderwood Sanctuary operates as a public wildlife intake facility.
Boulderwood Sanctuary’s wildlife rehabilitation program is conducted by a Rhode Island state‑licensed home wildlife rehabilitator, specializing in the care and release of injured and orphaned small mammals. Our focus is on giving native wildlife the best chance to recover and return safely to their natural environment.
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Our goal is always rehabilitation and release — helping wild animals heal and thrive in the wild, not keeping them in human care long‑term.
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If you'd like to help support the wild ones, we have an Amazon wishlist with supplies that we always need when busy season hits:
Wildlife Rehab Amazon Wishlist
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How Our Wildlife Rehab Works
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Licensed wildlife rehabilitation follows strict state regulations and best practices.
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Each animal receives individualized, species‑appropriate care.
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Veterinary support is provided through an established wildlife veterinary partner.
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We are not a public wildlife intake facility — please call ahead before bringing any wildlife.
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Species We Care For
We currently provide care for:
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Squirrel species (all ages)
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Eastern Cottontails (all ages)
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Chipmunks (all ages)
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Virginia opossums (joeys)
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Small rodents (mice, rats, voles, etc.)
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Please note:
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We do not accept rabies vector species (RVS), adult mammals of large size, raptors, songbirds, or reptiles at this time.
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The list of species we can care for may expand in the future as licensing allows.
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Wildlife care focuses on small mammals, primarily neonatal squirrels, and follows all state regulations for licensed home rehabilitation.
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Veterinary care is provided through an established wildlife clinic.​
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Found an Injured or Orphaned Wild Animal?
​If you discover a wild animal that appears injured or orphaned:
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Do not attempt to feed or care for it yourself.
Handling wildlife without proper training and licensing can harm the animal and may be illegal in Rhode Island. -
Wear gloves and carefully contain the animal in a breathable box or container.
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Keep it warm, quiet, and safe from pets or people.
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Call ahead before bringing the animal to us so we can advise you on the best next steps.
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​Learn What To Do Before You Rescue (PDF)(You can download & print to keep for easy access)
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For injured adult wildlife or animals requiring immediate veterinary care, you may also contact the Wildlife Clinic of Rhode Island at 401‑294‑6363 — they are part of the state’s licensed wildlife rehab network.



Why Licensed Wildlife Rehab Matters
Wildlife rehabilitation is a regulated practice designed to meet the physical and behavioral needs of wild animals so they can survive in the wild. Untrained care or improper handling can cause injury, prevent successful release, or violate state law.​​​​​