Animal Rescue with Marion Garnett

Dedicated animal expert MARION GARNETT, founder of the Ealing Animal Charities Fair continues her column

JUST as I was leaving hospital, a casualty was rushed into reception. No blue light for this patient but the care they received was fast.

This was the Gower Bird Hospital and a tiny wren had just been brought in needing urgent care.

At present I’m camping on the Gower Peninsula in Wales and have taken the opportunity to visit the hospital and meet the founders Karen Kingsnorth and Simon Allen who are inspirational in what they have achieved.

People who live on the Gower are fortunate not only because they live amongst stunning coastal scenery but also because they have, in their midst, a dedicated wildlife hospital, willing to receive wildlife casualties - not just birds. How wonderful if we had such a dedicated wildlife hospital in our part of London to augment our care for wildlife.

Karen and Simon started the hospital thirty years ago when Karen was a clinic veterinary nurse and was bringing sick wildlife home to care for.

In the late 1980s, they built their first aviary at home with a pool for water birds. More wildlife kept arriving with their work evolving into founding a wildlife hospital which has since become both a registered veterinary practice and charity. Karen and Simon are experts in the treatment and rehabilitation of wildlife and receive casualties from vets, the RSPCA and National Trust as well as members of the public.

Last year they treated more than 100 different species of birds as well as hedgehogs, bats, toads and lizards.

They also liaise with universities regarding scientific queries. Karen and Simon are examples of people who have seen un-met need and filled it.

In the absence of such a wildlife hospital in our part of London, if we find injured wildlife, the London Wildlife Trust outlines places we can ask for help.

Go to wildlondon.org.uk and click on the FAQ tab. We can also contact Tiggywinkles which is a Buckinghamshire wildlife hospital. They have a 24 hour emergency helpline on 01844 292292. Alternatively call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 or see rspca.org.uk and type wildlife in the search box. Or see if a local vet will help.

Hopefully during his lifetime, Winston will see his share of London’s wildlife.

Winston was born at Mayhew, the animal charity in Trenmar Gardens, Kensal Green. The kitten is currently being cared for at May- hew while waiting for a home. If this could be with you, call 020 8962 8000 or see themayhew.org.