Wild things

Mom and Dad went out for a bit today. And when they came home they smelled strange. Now I have a very sensitive nose but I could not put my paw on the scent at first. It was all over them! A kind of wild smell and very fresh. I smelled their hands, feet, slowly and delicately. What was it? Had they been in the woods without me? I decided that I had come across that scent before, but where?  Then, it hit me: RACCOON!!!! On the boat dock and in the garbage can!! Those sneaky critters who wear a mask so you don't know what or who they are! I know RACCOON! But why were Mom and Dad around them and so close?
Then Mom told me the story: These raccoons were living in an attic in someone's house.  The people didn't want them there and trapped their mother.  But, the babies were left behind!!! Orphans!  So, the raccoon babies went to Evelyn's Wildlife Refuge, in Virginia Beach.  Evelyn and her volunteers feed and care for the babies until they are old enough and healthy enough to go back to the wild. Then, they are released! They are free. Evelyn is a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.  This means that she can handle and rehab all species of wildlife and birds native to Virginia.  She sounds like a really cool lady. Mom and Dad had read about her work and wanted to go meet her and volunteer to help her.  I am sure they will because they really love animals too! Here is a picture Mom took of a baby raccoon....cute little thing, isn't he?

Note from the Mom: Evelyn's Wildlife Refuge is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. If you would like to make a donation, please mail a check or money order to the refuge at 2366 Highland Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, or you may donate online at the website.