Sloth Rescue - Do's and Don'ts

Sloth Save believes that wild animals should remain free whenever possible.  However, there are times when wild sloths need to be rescued, and hopefully, treated and later released.  Unfortunate circumstances might include sloths hit by cars, electrocution by climbing on live wires or occasionally being mauled by dogs.  

These circumstances may result in a sloth being injured and therefore not able to survive in the wild.  At this point it is time to call in reinforcements.  Whenever dealing with a wild animal care should be taken in handling. Gently placing a thick blanket over the sloth will allow the rescuer to carefully wrap the animal and transport it to the treatment facility.  When searching for a reliable treatment partner, always inquire about the release record of the center.  It is essential that the sloths are returned to the wild, after their rehabilitation, whenever possible. 

Always research a sloth treatment facility before entrusting them with your rescued sloth.  It is important to know that their objective is to get the sloth treated and back to the business of being a wild sloth as quickly as possible!

Education

Education is the key to protecting sloths.

Misinformation and exploitation of has resulted in hundreds of these animals being held for their life span in small cages.  Loss of habitat, poaching and exploitation threaten the survival of sloth species.

In spring 2012, Sloth Save representatives attended an international consortium, about the care and release of Xeanthria species. This international meeting was held in Medallin, Colombia in 2012.  The event was organized by Foundation AIUNAU Veterinarians, biologists and animal husbandry professionals discussed their research, publications and experience.

The Sloth Save campaign takes years of data, testimonials and publications and makes it available in our online resource center.  We also develop global and local educational programs to raise awareness about sloths.

The best way to insure sloths live in the wild is to make sure they are never removed from their natural ecosystems.  This will be easier to accomplish by following these steps:

• Realizing that most  “rescued” sloths do not need to be saved.  The should be left in the wild and observed.
• Build local support to protect sloths
• Say “no” to poaching and sloth tourism.  Wild sloths support ecotourism and therefore a more sustainable infusion to the local economy.

General

Sea Save Foundation recognizes, that whenever possible, wild sloths should live in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, there are times when sloths and other animals become injured and are not able to released. On these rare occasions these animals should be kept in expansive, clean enclosures, which resemble their natural habitats. These sloths can be used as ambassadors raising awareness, and educating children about the importance of protecting these animals and their habitat.

Misinformation and exploitation of sloths has resulted in hundreds of these animals being held for their life span in small cages. Loss of habitat, poaching and exploitation threaten the survival of sloth species.