Deer in distress in Kenora, Ont., sparks calls from resident for more wildlife support
Deena Foy’s daily routine with her dog in Kenora, Ont., took an unexpected turn when she noticed a deer with a tomato cage wrapped around its head and neck in her yard. This particular deer had become a regular visitor to her yard, sitting and staring at her dog before moving on to its usual grazing spots and returning the next morning.
Concerned for the deer’s well-being, Foy reached out for help. She first contacted the Ontario Provincial Police’s non-emergency line, who then directed her to the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). Unfortunately, she was informed that no immediate assistance could be provided. Frustrated by the lack of resources, Foy turned to social media for advice, but found more jokes than empathy in the comments section.
Despite the initial setbacks, Foy didn’t give up on helping the distressed deer. The following day, she spotted the deer in her yard once again, still struggling with the tomato cage. This time, she managed to connect with MNR officers who assured her that they were actively searching for the deer. Mike Fenn, a spokesperson for the MNR, confirmed that they were assessing the situation and working towards safely assisting the deer.
Foy’s experience shed light on the need for better public education on how to handle wildlife in distress. She emphasized the importance of having easily accessible resources for reporting injured animals, not just in Kenora but across northern Ontario where encounters with wildlife are common.
In response to wildlife calls, Heather Pihulak, the City of Kenora’s director of corporate services, clarified that the city does not handle such matters, and that responses to distressed wild animals are the responsibility of the MNR. The MNR, in turn, advised people encountering sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife to approach the situation with care and seek assistance from licensed wildlife custodians.
Ontario boasts around 70 wildlife custodians, who are legally authorized to provide temporary care to wildlife in need. While there may not be a custodian in Kenora, there are resources available online to locate the nearest one for assistance. The province also recommends contacting the Canadian Wildlife Health Co-operative for guidance on handling wildlife diseases and monitoring wildlife health.
As the situation with the deer unfolds, Foy remains hopeful for a positive outcome. She plans to update CBC News on any developments with the deer, with the goal of seeing it return to her yard without the burden of a garden accessory. Through her experience, Foy advocates for increased awareness and resources to support wildlife in distress, ensuring a safer environment for both animals and humans in the community.
