Veterinary role in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation

Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation have become vital components of modern conservation efforts in response to increasing human-induced pressures such as habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and human–wildlife conflict. Wild animals that are injured, orphaned, displaced, or diseased require timely and specialized care to improve their chances of survival and successful return to their natural habitats. Veterinarians play a key and multifaceted role in this process, extending beyond routine clinical care. Their responsibilities include emergency treatment, disease diagnosis, medical and surgical management, rehabilitation support, and participation in disease monitoring and conservation programs. Wildlife veterinary practice demands not only clinical expertise but also a sound understanding of ecology and animal behavior, along with strong ethical responsibility. This article highlights the diverse roles of veterinarians in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, along with the challenges they face and their crucial contribution to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem health.