Rideau Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
The Rideau Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (RVWS) is a registered Canadian charity specializing in wildlife rehabilitation for orphaned and injured mammals and reptiles in the Ottawa region. Established as a nonprofit organization with registration number #827317744RR0001, its mission focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing native Ontario wildlife back into their natural habitats[1][5].

Overview

RVWS primarily serves urban wildlife facing challenges such as vehicle collisions, illegal trapping, or abandonment. Annually, the sanctuary admits approximately 1,500 animals, ranging from small mammals and reptiles to rabies vector species and large carnivores[4][5]. Rehabilitation efforts prioritize species-specific care, including medical treatment, nutrition, and pre-release conditioning to ensure successful reintegration into the wild[1][5].

Operations and Services

The sanctuary operates through a combination of staff, volunteers, internships, and community partnerships. Key activities include:

• Wildlife rehabilitation: Treatment for injuries, orphan care, and species-specific recovery protocols[1][5].
• Public education: Guided tours with behind-the-scenes viewing of animal care, educational booths, and outdoor activities during public events like Doors Open Ontario[4].
• Volunteer programs: Opportunities for internships, co-op placements, and community volunteering to support daily operations and animal care[1].

Governance and Funding

As a registered charity, RVWS relies on donations, grants, and community support to fund its operations. It emphasizes transparency in resource allocation, particularly for medical supplies, enclosures, and specialized wildlife diets[1].

Facilities

The sanctuary operates from a dedicated facility featuring one-way observation windows for public viewing during educational tours, minimizing stress on recovering animals[4]. Adaptive reuse of spaces ensures efficient care for diverse species, including reptiles, semi-aquatic mammals, and ungulates[5].

Public Engagement

RVWS participates in annual events such as Doors Open Ontario, offering behind-the-scenes access to highlight wildlife rehabilitation processes and conservation challenges[4]. The organization also engages supporters through digital platforms to promote wildlife advocacy and fundraising initiatives[3].