Code of Ethics


WRNBC CODE OF ETHICS (revised 2008)

  1. A wildlife rehabilitator should strive to achieve high standards of wildlife care through knowledge and understanding of the field. Continuing efforts should be made to keep informed of current rehabilitation information, methods, laws and regulations.
  2. A wildlife rehabilitator’s attitude should be responsible and conscientious in working towards improving the quality of care given to wildlife undergoing rehabilitation.
  3. A wildlife rehabilitator must establish safe work habits and conditions, and abide by current health and safety practices at all times.
  4. A wildlife rehabilitator must maintain accurate and up-to-date records on all wildlife received and abide by local, provincial and federal laws concerning wildlife and wildlife rehabilitation.
  5. Wildlife rehabilitators should acknowledge their limitations and enlist the assistance of a consulting veterinarian or other trained professional when necessary.
  6. A wildlife rehabilitator should respect other rehabilitators, sharing skills and knowledge in the spirit of cooperation for the welfare of wildlife in care.
  7. A wildlife rehabilitator should encourage community support and involvement through public education programs and volunteer training, as a means of promoting a better understanding of wildlife and wildlife-related problems.
  8. A wildlife rehabilitator should work on the basis of sound ecological principles, incorporating appropriate conservation ethics, especially regarding the release of wildlife that has been in care.
  9. A wildlife rehabilitator should strive to provide professional and humane care in all phases of wildlife rehabilitation, respecting the wildness and dignity of each animal. Releasable animals must be maintained in a wild condition and released as soon as is appropriate. Non-releasable animals, inappropriate for education, fostering or captive breeding have a right to euthanasia.