09/03/2026
🐿️ FOUND A BABY SQUIRREL? Here's what to do first!
Every spring and fall, we receive calls about baby squirrels. While our first instinct is often to help by feeding them, that's actually one of the most dangerous things you can do.
The most important rule:
🧡Warmth first. Food later.
Before bringing a baby squirrel to the veterinary hospital:
✔️ Check for injuries.
✔️ Keep the baby warm in a soft, ventilated container.
✔️ Do not give food or water.
✔️ If the baby is warm, alert, and uninjured, give mom a chance to return before intervening.
✔️ If mom doesn't return or the baby appears injured or weak, contact us or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
We've created this quick reference guide to help you know the safest next steps.
📞 Harahan Veterinary Hospital
(504) 737-8910
💚 Save this post—you never know when someone may find a baby squirrel and need it!