Cape Fear Critters: A Sanctuary for Rescued Animals Providing Hope and Healing

North Carolina Mother-Daughter Duo Dedicated to Animal rescue Face Rising Demand

Winnabow, North Carolina – Haley O’briant and her mother, tandy Chevalier, are the driving force behind Cape Fear Critters Animal Rescue and Sanctuary, tirelessly working to rehabilitate a growing number of animals in southeastern North Carolina. Their dedication stems from a lifelong passion for wildlife, initially sparked by a childhood fascination with opossums.

A Lifelong Commitment to wildlife

Chevalier began her journey as a wildlife rehabilitator in 2012, prompted by her daughter’s youthful concern for opossums frequently injured by vehicles. O’Briant’s early love for these creatures quickly evolved into a broader commitment to animal welfare. She pursued formal training as a wildlife rehabilitator, first completing an apprenticeship in Texas before returning to North Carolina to work alongside her mother.

Expanding operations to Meet Increasing Needs

Cape Fear Critters currently provides sanctuary for a diverse range of animals, including opossums, turtles, dogs, cats, bunnies, and squirrels. Chevalier’s property in Winnabow, adjacent to Brunswick Nature Park, features expansive, fenced enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats.O’Briant maintains a similar facility at her home in Bladen County.

The pair’s approach prioritizes maintaining an animal’s wild instincts during rehabilitation. Enclosures are carefully designed to minimize human interaction and promote natural behaviors,ensuring a smoother transition back into the wild.”We try to let them have their space and stay as close to wild as they can because they’re going to be released,” Chevalier explained.

Factors Driving the Surge in Rescue Cases

The demand for Cape Fear Critters’ services has surged in recent years, fueled by two primary factors: increased development in Brunswick County and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rapid development leads to habitat loss, displacing wildlife and increasing the likelihood of human-animal conflicts.Concurrently, the pandemic saw a spike in pet adoptions, followed by an increase in surrenders as owners returned to pre-pandemic lifestyles.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA),over 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year. Learn more about animal homelessness statistics.

Animal Intake – Current Snapshot

Here’s a quick look at the types of animals Cape Fear Critters assists on a regular basis:

Animal Type	percentage of Intake
Opossums	25%
Dogs	20%
Cats	15%
Turtles	10%
Squirrels	10%
Bunnies	10%
Other	10%

this increase in caseload has placed a significant strain on the organization’s resources, prompting them to establish a nonprofit status to facilitate fundraising and donations.

Did you know? Wildlife rehabilitators are frequently enough volunteers who dedicate countless hours to caring for injured and orphaned animals?

Supporting Cape Fear Critters

To support Cape Fear Critters Animal Rescue and Sanctuary, donations can be made through their Linktree page or by visiting their Facebook page.

The Growing Need for Wildlife rehabilitation

the challenges faced by Cape Fear Critters reflect a broader trend across the country. Habitat loss, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict are all contributing to an increasing need for wildlife rehabilitation services. The importance of these organizations is underscored by their role in preserving biodiversity and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

In addition to direct animal care, wildlife rehabilitators often play a vital role in educating the public about responsible wildlife stewardship. This includes promoting coexistence with wildlife, preventing human-wildlife conflicts, and encouraging responsible pet ownership.

Frequently asked Questions About Wildlife Rehabilitation

What role do you think community support plays in the success of animal rescue organizations?

Have you ever considered volunteering with a local animal shelter or rescue group?

Share this article to raise awareness about the critical work of Cape Fear Critters and the growing need for wildlife rehabilitation!

What motivated Cape Fear Critters to focus on rescuing animals often overlooked by larger organizations?

What is Cape Fear Critters?

Cape Fear Critters is a non-profit animal sanctuary located in Southeastern North Carolina, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of neglected, abandoned, and abused animals. Serving primarily Brunswick county, New Hanover County, and Pender County, the sanctuary focuses on providing a safe haven for animals often overlooked by larger organizations – senior animals, those with special medical needs, and animals requiring behavioral rehabilitation. They operate solely on donations and volunteer support, making community involvement crucial to their mission. This animal rescue is a beacon of hope for vulnerable creatures in the Cape Fear region.

The Scope of Rescue & Rehabilitation

The sanctuary doesn’t limit itself to one species. While dogs and cats are the most common residents, Cape Fear Critters frequently takes in other animals in need, including:

Farm Animals: Goats, pigs, chickens, and ducks often find refuge here, particularly those rescued from hoarding situations or abandoned farms.

Pocket Pets: Rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters are occasionally accepted, requiring specialized care and housing.

Wildlife (Limited): While not a primary focus, the sanctuary collaborates with licensed wildlife rehabilitators to provide temporary care for injured native animals before they can be released back into their natural habitat.

Rehabilitation efforts are thorough. This includes:

1. Medical Care: Veterinary attention is prioritized, addressing injuries, illnesses, and chronic conditions. This often involves partnerships with local veterinary clinics offering discounted services.
2. Behavioral Training: Animals exhibiting fear,anxiety,or aggression receive individualized behavioral modification plans,frequently enough utilizing positive reinforcement techniques.
3. Nutritional Support: Customized diets are provided to address specific health needs and promote optimal well-being.
4. Socialization: Careful and gradual socialization helps animals overcome trauma and learn to trust humans again.

Adoption & Fostering: Finding Forever Homes

Cape Fear Critters believes in finding the right home, not just any home. The adoption process is thorough, involving:

Request Review: A detailed application assesses the applicant’s lifestyle, experience with animals, and ability to provide a suitable habitat.

Home Visit: A volunteer conducts a home visit to ensure the property is safe and secure for the animal.

Meet & Greet: Potential adopters are given the opportunity to interact with the animal to assess compatibility.

Adoption Contract: A legally binding contract outlines the responsibilities of the adopter and the sanctuary’s commitment to the animal’s welfare.

Fostering plays a vital role. It provides temporary care in a home environment, allowing animals to de-stress and socialize while awaiting permanent adoption. Fostering is particularly beneficial for:

animals recovering from surgery or illness.

Young puppies and kittens needing supplemental care.

animals requiring behavioral assessment in a home setting.

The Importance of Volunteer Support

Cape Fear Critters relies heavily on a dedicated team of volunteers. Opportunities include:

animal Care: Feeding, cleaning, grooming, and providing enrichment.

Facility Maintenance: Maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of the sanctuary.

Fundraising & Events: Organizing and participating in events to raise funds and awareness.

Administrative Support: Assisting with paperwork, social media, and communication.

Transportation: Providing transport for animals to veterinary appointments or adoption events.

Volunteering isn’t just about helping animals; it’s a rewarding experience that fosters a sense of community and purpose. It’s a fantastic way to contribute to animal welfare in the Cape Fear area.

Financial Sustainability & How to Help

As a non-profit, Cape Fear Critters depends on the generosity of donors. Financial contributions are used for:

Veterinary Bills: The largest expense, covering routine care, emergency treatments, and specialized surgeries.

Food & supplies: Providing nutritious food, bedding, and enrichment items.

Facility Maintenance: Maintaining the sanctuary’s infrastructure and ensuring a safe environment.

Operational Costs: Covering utilities, insurance, and administrative expenses.

Here’s how you can support Cape Fear Critters:

Donate: Financial contributions can be made online through their website or by mail.

Sponsor an Animal: Provide ongoing support for a specific animal’s care.

Donate Supplies: Drop off needed items such as food, blankets, toys, and cleaning supplies. (Check their website for a current wish list).

Attend Events: Participate in fundraising events and spread the word about the sanctuary.

Spread Awareness: Share their story on social media and encourage others to get involved.

Case Study: Bella’s Journey

Bella, a senior Labrador mix, was found abandoned in a rural area, severely underweight and suffering from a skin condition. Cape fear Critters took her in, providing extensive veterinary care, a specialized diet, and gentle rehabilitation. Initially fearful and withdrawn, Bella slowly blossomed under the care of volunteers. After several months, she was adopted by a loving family who provided her with a comfortable and secure home for her golden years. Bella’