Who We Are

Wildlife Rescue is a non-profit organization fueled by volunteers, donors, and a community that provides the public with services to help BC’s wildlife both locally in the Lower Mainland and across the province. The organization treats an average of 5,000 patients per year from as far as Williams Lake to Haida Gwaii and helps many more in the field by providing information and education to the public, making it the busiest wildlife rehabilitation centre in Western Canada.

Wildlife Rescue was established in 1979 to rehabilitate injured, orphaned and pollution-impacted wildlife. The organization is dedicated to returning wildlife to their natural environment to live independently following the rehabilitation process. Through volunteer opportunities, education, and outreach, Wildlife Rescue enables the public to peacefully coexist with urban wildlife. The organization’s vision is to continually improve the welfare of urban wildlife by preventing harm and protecting wild animals in their natural environment.

Before Wildlife Rescue was founded, there was no existing rehabilitation service for wildlife in Metro Vancouver, and members of the public had nowhere to turn to when they found wildlife in distress. Today, Wildlife Rescue treats animals from all over the province and provides emergency response services for wildlife, all with the support of donations.

Over 85% of the organization’s funding comes through individual donations. During challenging times of declining donations, worsened by the nationwide cost-of-living crisis, the critical need for public support is greatly emphasized. Without funding and support from individuals, businesses, municipalities, and the wider community, none of the work Wildlife Rescue does would be possible.

Registered Charity # 131373490RR0001