One of the unique aspects of living in Tega Cay is our ability to live in harmony with nature. Our beautiful walking trails, city parks and general topography allow residents to enjoy the best of what our region has to offer.
Often that harmonious relationship with certain animals becomes strained. Whether it’s overpopulation, an honest accident or for some other reason, there’s been a need in the past for certain animals in our area to be rehabbed and nursed back to good health. Enter the Tega Cay Wildlife Rehabbers.
The Rehabbers were recently formed by Tega Cay resident Casey Borer. Casey, along with fellow Tega Cay residents Gena Kerosetz, Sarah May, Christina Rivers, Beth Maree, Karelyn Paddock and Carmen Wells banded together to formalize a team that had loosely been partnering for years.
In the past, rehabbers generally worked alone, assuming the financial burden, energy and time it takes to perform animal rehabs on their own. Those who did help one another quickly saw a need to recruit other local wildlife rehabbers to help in their efforts.
Although there are numerous groups that are larger and more established, many of them are located in North Charlotte (Huntersville and Concord) or in other parts of the state like Greenville or Columbia. Unless these groups have volunteers close to or living in Tega Cay, the person performing an animal rehab who may be in need of assistance is asked to visit a location that could be an hour or more away.
The Tega Cay Wildlife Rehabbers aims to provide a local option for those who want to assist with animal rehabilitations. The group currently has experienced rehabbers who can assist with squirrels, cottontail rabbits, birds, waterfowl and even snakes to name a few. Their skill set also includes the ability to bottle feed multiple animals at a time, if necessary.
With connections to many of the larger animal rehabilitation groups in the area, the Rehabbers can tap these resources to assist if a vet or additional medical attention is needed depending on the circumstance. These connections also make it easier to transport an animal to a facility.
The Rehabbers are currently working on finalizing their non-profit status, along with setting up a website and all the associated branding that goes with it. For now, the team can be found on Facebook (Tega Cay Wildlife Rehabbers). There is also an Amazon registry setup for those who would like to donate: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/3GWBLQ3LVQQOW
Want to help?
The group is having an Open House on March 12th from 5:00-7:30 in the lower level of the Glennon Center. Contact Casey Borer ([email protected]) or visit their Facebook page for additional details.
