Animal Help Now: Your Wildlife Emergency Resource

What Is Animal Help Now and How Does It Work?

Animal Help Now (AHNow) is a free, nonprofit service that helps you find immediate assistance for wildlife in distress. Whether you've found an injured bird, a baby squirrel, or a deer in a dangerous spot, AHNow quickly connects you to the right people.

1. Go to ahnow.org or open the app — The service is available on the web and as a mobile app for both Apple and Android devices.
2. Enter your zip code or allow location access — AHNow uses your location to find wildlife rehabilitators and emergency responders near you.
3. Choose the type of animal and situation — The app asks about the species and the issue (injured, orphaned, conflict) to tailor the results.
4. Review the list of nearby resources — You'll see licensed rehabilitators, emergency contacts, and even instructions for what to do next.
5. Call the recommended contact — Reach out directly for guidance or to arrange transport. In a life-threatening emergency, also call local animal control or a wildlife rescue hotline.

Get the Animal Help Now App for Immediate Wildlife Assistance

To have wildlife help at your fingertips, download the Animal Help Now app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The app is free and designed for quick access during emergencies.

1. Search for "Animal Help Now" in your app store.
2. Download and install — The app is lightweight and works on most smartphones.
3. Open the app and allow location access — This ensures you get results for your exact area.
4. Use the app's directory to find rehabilitators, emergency vets, and other resources near you.
5. Bookmark ahnow.org on your phone's browser as a backup if you can't use the app.

Find a Wildlife Rehabilitator Near You with Animal Help Now

When you need a wildlife rehabilitator immediately, Animal Help Now is the fastest way to locate one. Here's how to do it:

1. Visit ahnow.org or open the app — The service is free and available 24/7.
2. Enter your zip code — For example, if you're in Forest Hills, NY (11375), input that to see nearby resources.
3. Filter by animal type and situation — Specify the species and whether it's injured, orphaned, or a conflict.
4. Review the list — You'll see licensed rehabilitators, their contact info, and sometimes instructions.
5. Call the closest match — They can advise on next steps, such as safe transport or whether to leave the animal alone.

In areas like Rego Park, Kew Gardens, or Briarwood, AHNow will show options within a reasonable distance. For immediate emergencies, also consider calling a local animal control or wildlife rescue hotline.

Wildlife Emergency? Here's What to Do Right Now

When you encounter an injured or sick wild animal, quick and careful action matters. Follow these steps to get the animal the help it needs without putting yourself or the animal at further risk.

1. Assess from a distance. Observe the animal's condition and behavior before approaching. If it's a large predator or appears aggressive, keep your distance and call a professional immediately.
2. Ensure your safety. Never handle a wild animal with bare hands. Use gloves, a towel, or a container if you must move it, and avoid contact with bodily fluids.
3. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator. Use Animal Help Now or a local wildlife center to find a licensed rehabilitator near you. They can give species-specific advice and arrange for pickup or drop-off.
4. Contain the animal if safe. If the animal is small and not dangerous, place it in a ventilated box with a soft cloth. Keep it in a quiet, dark, warm space until help arrives.
5. Do not feed or treat the animal. Offering food or home remedies can cause more harm. Wait for professional guidance.
6. Follow up. If you transported the animal, provide the rehabilitator with details about where and how you found it. This helps them plan care and release.

For details on services and visits, see the main page about vet forest hills.