State officials seize animals from Lexington wildlife rescuer due to permit issue, says rescuer – Lexington Herald Leader

In a recent incident that has sparked controversy and concern among animal lovers, a Lexington wildlife rescuer has claimed that state officials seized several animals from her care due to a permit issue. The rescuer, who has been providing a safe haven for injured and orphaned wildlife for years, is now facing the heartbreaking reality of losing the animals she has worked so hard to rehabilitate.

The rescuer, who wishes to remain anonymous, alleges that officials from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources arrived at her property and confiscated a number of animals, including squirrels, raccoons, and opossums. According to the rescuer, the animals were taken away because she did not have the proper permits required to keep them in her care.

This incident has raised questions about the regulations and policies surrounding wildlife rehabilitation in the state of Kentucky. While permits are necessary to ensure that animals are being cared for properly and in accordance with state guidelines, some argue that the process can be overly bureaucratic and burdensome for individuals who are simply trying to help animals in need.

The rescuer has expressed her frustration and sadness over the situation, stating that she has always put the well-being of the animals first and has never had any issues with the care she provides. She believes that the animals are now at risk of being euthanized or placed in overcrowded wildlife facilities, where they may not receive the same level of care and attention that she has been able to provide.

Animal rights activists and supporters of the rescuer have rallied behind her, calling for a review of the state’s wildlife rehabilitation policies and urging officials to reconsider their decision to seize the animals. Many have praised the rescuer for her dedication and compassion towards wildlife, and have expressed their hope that a resolution can be reached that allows her to continue her important work.

In response to the incident, a spokesperson for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources stated that they are committed to enforcing the state’s wildlife regulations in order to protect both the animals and the public. They emphasized the importance of obtaining the necessary permits and following proper procedures when caring for wildlife, in order to ensure the animals‘ well-being and safety.

As the situation continues to unfold, the rescuer and her supporters are hopeful that a positive outcome can be achieved that allows her to resume her work and continue providing care for the animals she loves. In the meantime, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by wildlife rescuers and the importance of supporting their efforts to protect and rehabilitate animals in need.