Advice by Species   ||   Common Situations   ||   Find A Wildlife Rescue   ||   Home

Foxes


 
When to help?   

 

If the fox has been hit by a car - it will need to be assessed for concussion, shock or other injuries.

 

If the fox has been attacked by a dog - it will need to be assessed for injuries and should be treated for shock and given antibiotics.

 

A fox trapped in a fence, netting or wire. Don't attempt to free it yourself - you could be bitten & could make the injuries worse. The fox needs to be freed by an expert & will then need treatment for injuries.

 

If a fox of any age has an obvious injury. 

 

If the fox has fur loss, or it's skin looks crusty particularly on it's back or face. It may be suffering from sarcoptic mange.

 

If an adult fox can be approached and does not attempt to or is unable to run away.

 

A healthy looking fox out by day. This is not necessarily cause for alarm as foxes are becoming tamer. If in doubt approach the fox and only call for help if you can get close to him or see an obvious problem.

 

An apparently abandoned den or cub. Unless cubs are injured or in danger observe for several hours before intervening. If there is no sign of an adult after this time call for advice. Try not to touch the cubs.

 

 
What should I do next?

Do not pick up a fox cub until you have been advised to do so by a wildlife rescue unless it is obviously injured or in immediate danger.

Never attempt to capture an adult fox yourself - a scared fox can give you a serious bite. If the fox is immobile and can be approached then call a wildlife rescue who should be able to send someone to catch the fox safely. If the fox is in need of help but still mobile, they may need to set a humane cage trap. You can help by leaving a small amount of food out for the fox to encourage it to come back to your garden.

If the fox appears to be suffering from mange then it can be treated using a homoeopathic treatment which can be added to food each night for two weeks. Contact the
National Fox Welfare Society who will be able to provide you with treatment.