Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Test

What is the first action to take in the process of animal stabilization?

1. Administer medication

2. Warm the animal

3. Provide water for hydration

4. Assess the injuries

The correct answer is: Warm the animal

The first step in the process of animal stabilization is to warm the animal. Maintaining body temperature is crucial, especially in wildlife that may be suffering from shock, hypothermia, or other stress-related conditions. Many animals, particularly those that are injured or abandoned, can become hypothermic due to exposure and trauma. Therefore, providing a warm environment helps to support their physiological functions and improves their chances of recovery. While assessing injuries, administering medication, and providing water for hydration are all important aspects of animal care, they should follow the initial step of ensuring the animal's body temperature is stable. Warming the animal creates a safer condition for conducting further assessments and interventions, as it stabilizes vital signs and helps reduce stress.