Tufts Wildlife Clinic

- 50 Willard St, North Grafton, MA 01536

For animal lovers in Massachusetts, coming across an injured or orphaned wild animal can be a distressing experience. Knowing where to turn for help is crucial, and the Tufts Wildlife Clinic in North Grafton is a vital resource for the entire state. As part of the prestigious Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, this clinic is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife. Unlike a typical veterinary practice that focuses on domestic pets, this facility provides specialized medical care for a wide range of species, from common birds and squirrels to larger mammals and even reptiles. The clinic’s mission is to treat these animals with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into their natural habitats, a commitment that highlights their profound dedication to animal welfare and conservation.

The Tufts Wildlife Clinic operates at the intersection of veterinary medicine and wildlife conservation. The clinic is staffed by a team of experienced veterinarians, residents, and students who are experts in the unique medical needs of wild animals. The professional and compassionate approach to wildlife, as seen in the case of the injured pigeon, demonstrates the clinic's dedication to every life, regardless of species. They are a beacon of hope for animals that might otherwise be overlooked or considered "undesirable." However, it is important to understand that as a teaching hospital and a leading institution in animal medicine, their practices are rooted in clinical assessment and a professional, evidence-based approach. While a patient may have an emotional connection to an animal, the clinic’s responsibility is to make decisions based on the animal’s best chance of survival and quality of life, which can sometimes lead to difficult outcomes.

The Tufts Wildlife Clinic is located at 50 Willard St, North Grafton, MA 01536, situated on the expansive campus of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. The location is a central hub for veterinary education and practice in Massachusetts. While it may require a drive for some, the facility is designed to be as accessible as possible. The clinic features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom, ensuring that all concerned citizens can bring in an animal in need. It is important to note that the clinic specializes in wildlife and does not provide an ambulatory service to pick up animals. Therefore, people who find an animal must be able to transport it to the clinic themselves. The staff's willingness to provide guidance over the phone, as seen in a customer review, is a testament to their dedication and helpfulness.

The Tufts Wildlife Clinic provides a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the needs of wild animals, often going beyond what a typical veterinarian can offer.

Services offered include:

• Emergency Services: The clinic is equipped to handle emergency situations for injured or critically ill wildlife, providing immediate medical attention and stabilization.
• Diagnostic Imaging and Laboratory Testing: Using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, the clinic can quickly and accurately diagnose the conditions of their patients, from internal injuries to diseases.
• Surgical Care and Anesthesia: A skilled surgical team performs a wide range of procedures to treat injuries and conditions that require surgical intervention.
• General Exams and Treatment: The clinic provides thorough medical assessments and treatment plans aimed at rehabilitating animals for release.
• Continuing Education and Clinical Trials: As a teaching hospital, the clinic is involved in educating future veterinarians and conducting research to advance the field of wildlife medicine.
• Reproductive Services and Field Service: These services, while perhaps more focused on the academic and research side, contribute to the clinic’s overall expertise in a variety of animal health matters.
• Other services include: Cage Cleaning, Care For Pets, Diagnostic Tests, Dog Sitting (likely related to a separate clinic or service on campus), Large Animal Ambulatory, Shelter Medicine, Spay/Neuter Clinic, and Virtual Tour.

Several key aspects make the Tufts Wildlife Clinic a unique and indispensable resource for the Massachusetts community.

• Specialized Expertise: The clinic's staff and faculty are leaders in the field of wildlife medicine. This specialization allows them to successfully treat and rehabilitate a diverse range of animals, including those often considered "less desirable" like pigeons.
• Commitment to Rehabilitation: The ultimate goal of every intervention is to release the animal back into its natural habitat. This mission-driven approach underscores a deep respect for wildlife and conservation.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Being part of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine means the clinic has access to advanced medical equipment and technology, enabling them to provide the highest level of care.
• Educational Role: The clinic plays a crucial role in educating future veterinarians and raising public awareness about wildlife and conservation issues, contributing to a healthier ecosystem for all.
• Compassionate Care for All Species: The positive review about the care of the pigeon highlights a core value of the clinic—that all animals, regardless of species, deserve compassionate and professional treatment.

To learn more or to bring an injured wild animal to the clinic, you can use the contact information below. Please note that appointments are recommended.

Address: 50 Willard St, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA

Phone: (508) 839-7918

Mobile Phone: +1 508-839-7918

When considering where to take an injured wild animal in Massachusetts, the Tufts Wildlife Clinic is often the most appropriate choice due to its specialized expertise and commitment to rehabilitation. However, a customer review does highlight a significant concern regarding communication and an emphasis on euthanasia. While the review is a serious matter, it is also important to note that euthanasia decisions in veterinary medicine, especially for wildlife, are often complex and based on a professional assessment of the animal's prognosis and quality of life. The ultimate goal of the clinic is to release animals back into the wild, and if that is not a viable option, they must make difficult, but necessary, decisions to prevent prolonged suffering. When considering this clinic, individuals should be prepared to trust the expert medical opinion of the staff, which may sometimes differ from their own emotional hope for an animal. The clinic's reputation for professionalism and its role in a major academic institution suggest that its practices are guided by established medical protocols. Its value lies in its unique ability to provide advanced, specialized care that no other local veterinary service can, making it a critical part of the Massachusetts animal welfare network. For anyone who finds an injured wild animal, the Tufts Wildlife Clinic provides the best chance for a successful recovery and a safe return to the wild.

Tufts Wildlife Clinic

50 Willard St, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA