Meet Cherish
Day of arrival at just 2kg
Beautiful Miss Cherish was surrendered by a MOP (member of the public) on March 17 (St Patrick's Day) together with her brother who was named Patrick. The family who had these two beautiful joeys had no idea how to care for them and happily surrendered them as soon as they became aware the joeys were not being cared for correctly.
A month after coming into my care
Miss Cherish came into my life that day and what a journey it has been, First thing we needed to teach her was life in a pouch, that was foreign to her. She had also been over stimulated with human interaction and had no idea what it meant to go to sleep. That was pretty tough for a joey who did not know how to be a joey. It took time and lots of patience.
Her health was severely compromised. It was touch and go with her for some time with kidney, liver and pancreas issues. Shey at Nullakai Vet was amazing because issues always happen at night or on the weekend. Cherish had bright fluro orange pee and with a very high count of Bilirubin in her urine samples we were worried about permanent liver damage due to incorrect feeding.
But Miss Cherish was a fighter and we fought with her. She learned to love her pouch and hanging bags and enjoyed being with us and not being handled all the time.
We needed to teach her to be a kangaroo, so we began asking around for a buddy. Enter into our lives Donny. Donny was a beautiful boy, big bright eyes and the two of them hit it off immediately. It made a huge difference in Cherish's life to have a buddy. Thank you Jenny Norton. Sadly Donny didn't make it. Behind those beautiful big bright eyes we suspect was some injury and he passed away in his (first) Mummy's arms. I missed him so much and so did Cherish. You will never be forgotten beautiful boy.
Calle came into our lives about a month later. She was about 2 kgs smaller and I was worried they wouldn't bond. For the first few weeks Calle hated poor Cherish and there were so many spats. They began to tolerate each other and I wondered if they would ever become buddies.
I did not need to be concerned. They are now inseparable and love each other so much. Always together walking and hopping in unison. It is such a joy to watch them together.
As Cherish grew bigger, she became stronger. Her kidneys, liver and pancreas healed themselves as she began to eat real roo food.
Now she is going to be a Mummy herself. I hope and pray that her body is strong enough to carry a baby. Thankfully she is still on the property and I can keep an eye on her should any problems arise.
Here is Cherish this morning showing off a baby bump. She doesn't like her head being touched but is always happy to have a chest rub. She has been a joy to rehabilitate and I am thankful to have had that opportunity. Patrick went to another carer and he is now living a wild and free life as well. Thank you to the family for doing the right thing and handing these over, you gave them a second chance at life.
UPDATE: 21/01/2025 Cherish is a proud and wonderful mother to Connie (mother to Charlie, Chaz and Cypres) Liron (mother to Lincoln & Logan) River (RIP) Donnie and her first boy Comet.
She is here every morning and afternoon for grain and treats. She is quiet and pretty much keeps to herself. She doesnt like sharing her grain with others. she doesn’t fight for her food, just walks away, so I make sure I find her a quiet spot somewhere where she can enjoy her food in peace with her baby.
The bond between her and Calle has gone as a result of them both becoming mothers. Calle is still here as well. Still vocal and bossy.
The Importance of Handing Over Wildlife Within 72 Hours
Wildlife rescues can be an emotional and urgent matter. When a member of the public encounters an injured, orphaned, or distressed wild animal, their instinct might be to help. While this compassion is commendable, it's crucial to understand that handing over wildlife to experienced carers within 72 hours can make a significant difference.
Immediate Expert Care: Wildlife carers are trained to handle the specific needs of various species. They have the knowledge and resources to provide the best medical care and rehabilitation. The first 72 hours are critical in stabilising the animal's condition and preventing further deterioration.
Species-Specific Needs: Different species have unique dietary, habitat, and medical requirements. A well-meaning member of the public might not be aware of these needs, which could inadvertently harm the animal. Expert carers ensure that each animal receives the appropriate care tailored to its species.
Minimising Stress: Wild animals are highly susceptible to stress, which can exacerbate their injuries or illnesses. Professional wildlife carers know how to create a stress-free environment and handle the animals in a way that minimizes distress, promoting a quicker recovery.
Preventing Human Imprinting: When young animals, like joeys, are cared for by humans for too long, they can become imprinted, making it difficult for them to survive in the wild. Handing them over quickly ensures they are raised in a way that prepares them for a successful release back into their natural habitat.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: It is illegal to keep wildlife without the proper permits. By handing over the animal to licensed wildlife carers, you are complying with local laws and ensuring the animal's well-being.
Supporting Wildlife Conservation: Wildlife carers are part of a broader network dedicated to conserving and protecting wildlife populations. By entrusting them with injured or orphaned animals, you are contributing to conservation efforts and helping to maintain the balance of local ecosystems.
When you encounter an injured or distressed wild animal, remember that the best way to help is to quickly get them into the hands of experts. Your prompt action could be the difference between life and death for these vulnerable creatures. Together, we can give them the best chance of survival and a future back in the wild.