In 1995 I began working with wildlife by volunteering with a network of rehabilitators in Minnesota who became my mentors and friends. I also volunteered in a wildlife rehabilitation center and learned techniques for handling most species, and basic first aid for wildlife. I subsequently obtained my permits and have been working directly with wildlife at my home facility since 1999.

Since I began, I have met many people involved in rehabilitating wildlife and in educating folks like me who had an interest in wild ways, but who had little direct experience. I learned that everyone, everywhere, can appreciate wildlife at their window, in their yards and in their daily travels. The main requirement is simply to be interested and aware.

I have become increasingly concerned about the need to encourage tolerance for our wild neighbors. Mostly they aren't in OUR backyard, rather we are in theirs. As our own population grows and expands, there are fewer safe places for wild animals to live and thrive without human contact. If we can put our fears aside, and approach our relationships to wild animals with common sense, we can resolve many of the situations that put us at odds with the wild ones. They belong here too, and frankly I wouldn't appreciate the earth nearly so much without their presence.