Raccoon Rescue

Today, writing a novel has been replaced with rescuing a critter and then writing about it.

Mid Sunday afternoon. My step-daughter remarks that she saw kids across the canal throwing rocks at a raccoon. She could see the animal where he had made his way across the canal and was lying half in and out of the water. He was obviously hurt but alive, as she saw him lifting his head several times.

I drive to the neighbors house to get the story. I was met with laughter and disregard. The neighbor claimed the raccoon had tried to attack his large dog. They were aware the raccoon was lying on the edge of the canal dying and suggested that if I had a gun, I shoot it and put it out of its misery.

I cried all the way home wondering to myself, "How can people be so mean?"

After calls to the police and animal control, I was directed to the Wildlife Rescue Center who were more than willing to help. They asked that I verify that the animal was still alive which I did. He was very much alive as I looked down at the little 'bandit' face. It looked like his hindleg was injured thus inhibiting him from getting out of the canal or swimming away.

Kenny from the Wildlife Rescue Center was heading our way but would be about 45 mins coming from West Palm Beach. The tide was rising quickly and I prayed the little guy would make it until we got to him.

This story has a good ending. Kenny arrived, swooped the raccoon out of the water and into a cage where he was transported to the wildlife animal hospital. From his appearance and behavior, Kenny did not believe he was rabid, so the vets would have a look and give him the best care they could and then he would be released onto private, wooded property.

Quite an unexpected drama for an otherwise gray afternoon and an opportunity for reflection on the selflessness of people who love animals. We love them because of their unconditional love toward us and in return, we treat them with unconditional love, regardless of the effort involved and whether they are domesticated or not.

My respect and gratitude to Kenny, the Wildlife Rescue Center, and my neighbors for their moral support and compassion. To the kids across the canal, and even more so to their parents, you have my sympathy. It must get drafty living with a hole that big in your heart.