Dear Bob, We do remember this visit clearly. A gentleman, not a woman, walked in our office claiming to be a veterinarian and wanted us to euthanize a squirrel right away because his office was too far away. Immediately, we recognized something was not right. However, we did offer this man an office call and we did let him know the fee ahead of time for that office call with requested euthanasia, should that be decided upon after the office call. We routinely give estimates for all services requested: we believe it is a forthright practice and our owners have been pleased with this practice. Had this gentleman wanted the office call, we were happy to accommodate him right away even though we had several procedures that afternoon and this was a walk in appointment during the onset of that time. Why is the office call so important? Every veterinarian is acutely aware that euthanasia of any animal, wild or domestic is a responsibility of great magnitude. Each veterinarian is also aware of the responsibility to heal, to relieve suffering, and to protect public health. Public health is often the most difficult of all jobs, because many people believe that handling wild animals, especially ill or injured ones, is an act of kindness. What many do not realize is the serious risk of this practice. Veterinarians are perhaps the most privy to this information. This is why veterinarians with post doctoral training in public health or exotics, wild life rescue groups, county regulated animal control, and other venues work together to handle ill or injured wild animals. An ill or injured animal needs an examination to see if the illness or injury has potential for having transferred disease--or received transfer of disease--involving other animals and people. Veterinarians also recognize that if euthanasia is performed, the veterinarian asked to perform it bears the entire responsibility of this action and its consequences. Moreover, a veterinarian understands that the handling of a wild animal for euthanasia and care of remains are much more convoluted than the euthanasia experience that you have had with a family pet. This is why veterinarians routinely do not pick up wild animals, bring them to another veterinarian's office, potentially expose themselves and an office to health risks, and expect immediate euthanasia. Thus, for such a request as euthanasia on a wild animal, an examination and history is needed. This is where the office call is critical. What if this animal had been able to heal? Would a veterinarian want to euthanize it? What if after its examination, the veterinarian suspected that you might be in danger of being exposed to a life threatening disease? That office call could save your life. Bob, we celebrate it when people show kindness to animals. This is one of the many reasons veterinarians seek out this profession. If you, or this gentleman, wish to continue to seek out aid of animals in the wild, we strongly encourage you to seek out training through a wildlife rescue center, an animal control officer program, or government sponsored program. Since you have had pets yourself, perhaps your current small animal veterinarian would be a resource for you. An office call would allow you to discuss your interests and how they can be safely pursued. It is a worthy effort, but must be done with great caution. Please be safe as you move forward. We wish you much success in your future. Sincerely, The Haddon Veterinary Clinic Staff

They helped me nurse my very old cat back to health, and when she passed naturally later on this year, the clinic sent a very heartfelt sympathy card signed by the entire staff. They truly care about their little patients.