N.S. wildlife charity warns public of rise in donation scams

Hope Swinimer, the founder and director of Hope for Wildlife, is pictured with a bobcat in her lap. (Mike Lamb/CTV Atlantic)

A charitable wildlife rehabilitation organization in Seaforth, N.S., told the public it does not solicit donations or goods door-to-door in a Friday Facebook post.

The founder of Hope for Wildlife told CTV News in an email these incidents come up once or twice a year, but they’ve noticed an increase in reports lately.

“Most concerning this year was someone claiming to work for Hope for Wildlife and offering to take wild animals,” said Hope Swinimer. “That kind of misrepresentation puts both the public and wildlife at serious risk.”

Swinimer said other charities are facing similar issues.

“It’s important we’re not misrepresented,” Swinimer said. “Our goal with the post was to remind the public to be cautious and always confirm directly with us.”

The post advises anyone who finds an injured or orphaned animal to call the charity’s helpline so a trained volunteer can be dispatched to transport the animal to a veterinary clinic.

Those looking for ways to help Hope for Wildlife should visit its website or email questions about donating, said the post.

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