Animal rehabilitation facility opens its doors

Book early to ensure you get an opportunity to go behind the scenes at a wildlife rehabilitation centre as the B.C. SPCA hosts its annual open house, Saturday and Sunday at its facility in Metchosin.

Only 1,000 guests can be accommodated during the two-day event, which offers animal lovers a chance to glimpse wildlife rehabilitation in action, and meet staff and volunteers as they work to save lives.

Volunteer crews will guide small tour groups through the 10-acre property, showing how the rehabilitation team cared for more than 130 different species last year.

“It takes a lot of knowledge and planning to be able to help such a diverse range of species,” said Meg Hatch, the centre’s assistant manager.

“We admit wild patients, ranging from delicate baby hummingbirds to feisty injured river otters to ocean-faring seabirds. Each species requires specialized housing, care and nutrition, and we’re able to provide that in one multi-faceted facility.”

Operating 365 days a year, Wild ARC has cared for more than 40,000 animals since opening in 1997.

“I think a lot of people don’t realize how much specialized treatment is required to care for our wild patients — it can be fascinating to learn,” Hatch said.

People are encouraged to dress for the weather with appropriate footwear for walking outside, as the show goes on, rain or shine.

To avoid potential stress, none of the animal patients are available to view, but a live educational raptor will be on-site. Leave pets at home.

While the tour is free, donations of cash or food or supplies to help the animals are gratefully appreciated. Reservations are required and the event fills up quickly, so be sure to register to reserve your preferred tour time.

The event runs from noon to 4 p.m.The Wild ARC facility is at 1020 Malloch Rd., Metchosin.

To book a tour, go to spca.bc.ca/tourwildarc.