Why is maintaining records important in wildlife rehabilitation?

Maintaining records in wildlife rehabilitation is crucial for several reasons, particularly for tracking treatment progress and monitoring outcomes. Accurate record-keeping allows rehabilitators to document each animal's medical history, treatments administered, and responses to those treatments. This information is invaluable for assessing the effectiveness of rehabilitation methods and making informed decisions about ongoing care.

Furthermore, detailed records help identify patterns in injuries or illnesses among different species, contributing to broader insights within the field of wildlife rehabilitation. By monitoring outcomes, rehabilitators can refine their practices, share experiences with colleagues, and enhance overall animal welfare. The continuous assessment provided by thorough records ultimately helps improve success rates in returning healthy animals to their natural habitats.