A fox found with a serious leg injury near an Isle of Wight property has made a full recovery and been safely released back into the wild, thanks to the quick actions of a local residents and Friends of the Animals.
The call came nearly 3 weeks ago from a concerned member of the public, Sylvie, who spotted the injured fox – now named Freddie – with an open wound on his front leg. Wildlife rescuer Ted was contacted and visited the site, where Sylvie had also managed to capture some images of the injured animal.
It was agreed that a humane trap would be set to capture the fox for treatment. The trap was in place by 11:15 the following morning and, by just before 13:00, Sylvie rang to confirm Freddie had been safely caught.
Freddie was taken to Ted’s wildlife care unit, where he was found to have a deep wound just above the carpal joint, with significant swelling and infection. Treatment began immediately, using antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, and daily wound care, including flushing and application of medical honey – a technique Ted says has become a “game changer” in treating deep wounds in foxes and badgers.
Freddie responded well to the treatment and required no sedation throughout his recovery. Within 10 days, the swelling and infection had cleared and the wound had almost fully healed.
After a further short period of rehabilitation in a larger pen, Freddie was deemed ready to return to the wild. Ted coordinated with Sylvie to ensure the release took place at a quiet time of day earlier this week, giving Freddie the best chance to reacquaint himself with his territory without disturbance.
What a lovely ending, hopefully Freddie is doing ok? Well
done to all involved in his care while he recovered.
Well done.
Good to hear hope that you have a long and healthy life Freddie
Not such great news for the ground nesting birds though.
Great to here Freddie is well.