New Hampshire Veterinary Center for Wildlife discusses rescue and rehabilitation plans

The Hooksett Planning Board meeting on March 3, 2025, spotlighted a significant proposal for the New Hampshire Veterinary Center for Wildlife, aimed at providing critical care for injured and orphaned wildlife. Co-founder Helen Dutton presented the center's mission, which revolves around four key tenets: rescue, repair, rehabilitate, and educate.

Dutton explained that the center will serve as a specialized animal hospital dedicated solely to wildlife, addressing the urgent need for rehabilitation services in the region. The facility will handle low traffic, primarily involving staff and volunteers who will rescue animals, perform surgeries, and provide rehabilitation care. Dutton emphasized that on days requiring surgery, the center would operate with minimal staff, ensuring a controlled environment for both animals and visitors.

The educational component of the center is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to train future veterinarians and animal care professionals. Dutton highlighted the unique expertise of her husband, Mike Dutton, who has decades of experience in wildlife care, and expressed a commitment to sharing this knowledge with aspiring veterinarians.

The Planning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting and engaged in this concept discussion, marking a pivotal step toward enhancing wildlife care in New Hampshire. The proposal is expected to foster community involvement and raise awareness about wildlife rehabilitation, with further discussions anticipated in upcoming meetings.