The Olathe Animal Hospital and its doctors have a fascination for wildlife and exotic species.  A significant portion of our patients include non-traditional pets.  We have the knowledge and training to prevent, and when necessary, treat many of the common conditions that occur in small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

For many years our staff has volunteered its time and resources to save birds of prey that have been injured. Many are hit by cars or fly into power lines.  Operation Wildlife, the only licensed and permitted rehabilitator in our area, works in partnership with our hospital.  We have been fortunate to work on such species as herons, hawks, eagles, and owls.

Recently Operation Wildlife brought us a mature bald eagle that had been caught in a foot trap intended to catch fur bearing animals.  The middle toe on one foot was almost severed and the inside toe was damaged as well.  Using their expertise and patience, the team at Operation Wildlife provided care to this magnificent bird. Finally the wounds healed but the bird was left without a bone in the middle toe attaching the toe to the foot. The bird could not use that toe to grip its perch or to collect food.

The eagle was brought to our hospital for an evaluation to determine whether it could survive in the wild or whether it needed to become a part of a public education program.  The director at Operation Wildlife, Diane Johnson, and the director of the Olathe Animal Hospital , Dr. Mark Romain, evaluated the eagle under anesthesia (see photo).  It was determined that the bird could not grip well with the foot and that the toe was interfering with food collection.  Dr. Romain wrote a letter for the federal authorities recommending this bird be placed in a suitable public education program.

If you would like to volunteer to help with wildlife rehabilitation or make a donation to Operation Wildlife, you can reach them at 785-542-3625 or view their website.  If you have questions for our staff select “Contact Us” or give us a call at 913-764-1415.

Read more about our committment to Operation Wildlife and other community services.