Wild Heart Ranch: A Haven for Oklahoma’s Wildlife
Since 1996, Wild Heart Ranch has been a beacon of hope for the native wildlife of Oklahoma. This rehabilitation sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of every species of animal found in the state, with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into their natural habitats. The staff at Wild Heart Ranch work tirelessly to provide medical care, support, and education to the animals in their care, ensuring that they have the best chance at a second lease on life.
The mission of Wild Heart Ranch is encapsulated in their main mission statement, “because we all suffer the same.” This philosophy guides their approach to caring for wildlife, and they have several key services that they provide to fulfill their mission. These services include providing medical or infant support to any indigenous wild animal in need, refraining from imprinting the animals to their human caretakers, educating the public about local wildlife, and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and organization at their facility.
Licensed rehabber Austyn Potter recently shared insights into the daily life at Wild Heart Ranch, shedding light on the challenges and rewards of saving the lives of wild animals. The ranch receives intakes daily, with a surge in animal drop-offs often occurring after natural disasters. Despite the high volume of animals in their care, the staff at Wild Heart Ranch ensures that each animal receives individualized care and attention to help them recover and thrive.
The work at Wild Heart Ranch is a labor of love, with daily tasks including providing exams, medications, treatments, and cleaning enclosures to ensure the health and well-being of the animals. The staff also field numerous phone calls from the public seeking information or assistance with wildlife encounters, further highlighting the importance of education and outreach in their mission.
The variety of animals at Wild Heart Ranch is vast, ranging from field mice to bobcats and everything in between. The number of animals in their care fluctuates throughout the year, with up to 500 animals in the summer and as few as 10 in the winter. Each animal is given the care and attention they need to recover and eventually be released back into the wild.
One of the many success stories at Wild Heart Ranch is Copper, a baby red fox who came in severely anemic and with suspected spinal injuries. Through dedicated care and rehabilitation, Copper has made remarkable progress in his recovery, from being unable to lift his head to now being able to run short distances on his own. His journey is a testament to the dedication and compassion of the staff at Wild Heart Ranch.
To learn more about Wild Heart Ranch and support their mission, visit their Facebook page or website. With their unwavering commitment to the well-being of Oklahoma’s wildlife, Wild Heart Ranch continues to be a beacon of hope for animals in need.
