Hope for Wildlife

by Ray MacLeod

One day, a couple who had run over a skunk with their car brought it to the Dartmouth Veterinary Hospital. When the veterinarians couldn't look after it, Hope Swinimer decided to take the helpless animal into her care, and that was the start of it all. Now, through her rehabilitation centre called Hope for Wildlife, Hope's name is synonymous with wildlife rescue in Nova Scotia. Since 1997, hundreds of animals have been saved through the tireless efforts of the staff and volunteers at Hope for Wildlife. Some animals' stories were so unique that they even garnered national attention-such as Hope's battle with the department of natural resources over Gretel, a member of the endangered pine marten species. Each creature comes with its own challenges, either through a particularly difficult injury or a quirky personality-like Lucifer the inexplicably bald and ornery raccoon-but each patient leaves an indelible mark on the lives of those around them. Hope for Wildlife tells the stories of fourteen different wild animals from Nova Scotia that have passed through the centre. Colour photographs of the animals and the centre's efforts supplement the text, and info boxes offer further information on the province's wildlife. The stories in Hope for Wildlife are educational, heartwarming, and sometimes heartbreaking-but always filled with hope.

Genres: Nonfiction, Animals

170 pages, Paperback

First published April 27, 2011

About the author

Ray MacLeod is a retired teacher, and a former columnist and reporter with the The Chronicle Herald and several other newspapers. His creation of a full-credit high school applied journalism course won him the 1993 Hilroy Fellowship for outstanding innovation in Canadian education. Ray is a former information officer for the Newfoundland Department of Resources and a life-long outdoorsman and naturalist. He lives in Waverley, Nova Scotia.

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moving to read of good-hearted people trying to make a difference despite the odds. An interesting and honest portrayal of successes and failures, mistakes and inspired acts. The author's enthusiasm for the subject shows.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a light and easy read even though all the outcomes weren't always the best. There are pictures of all the animals and birds that were part of the books stories and some of them would be recognized if you had watched the Hope for Wildlife show over the years.
A bunch of animals were chosen and had their stories written about in each chapter. Some were huge success stories, some weren't. What shows through is the heart and the caring of the Hope for Wildlife center with their love and caring for the animals and birds that come through their doors. There are mistakes made and learned from but regardless, every animal and bird is cared for in the best way possible.

[Kendra MacKenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very, very sweet book. I have met some of the animals, their stories are amazing and what these people do for the animals is incredible. Not necessarily to be read in one sitting but can be read in pieces very nicely.

[Latie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book last year because I thought it was for a good cause. Then I set it on my shelf and there it sat. Looking at my collection of books and deciding what to read, I picked this up and appraised it for a moment, feeling inspired to learn about wildlife rehabilitation that’s done by a local centre run by Hope Swinimer.

I was so pleased with the format of the book. The glossy pages are complimented with beautiful photos of the actual animals Hope for Wildlife has saved, along with fun facts. There are 14 chapters, each one detailing different cases of incredible stories involving animal rescue. It was fascinating to observe through the eyes of the caregivers the individual personalities of the animals they have cared for. The book put into perspective why it’s so vital that animals remain in the wild and how, as people, we can make a positive influence in their lives and environment.

I am so glad I read this, I feel less ignorant of my own surroundings, and definitely plan to pursue more knowledge about the amazing things happening in my own community.

I would definitely recommend this for any reader as it is an excellent educational resource for any age.

Happy Reading!

[Patricia Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice stories, some heartwarming, some sad. Kudos to this organization. I didn't give it a 5 star because the writing style a bit stilted.

[⭐️Ellen⭐️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admit, I skipped the two stories with unfortunate endings. Even the story of Sweet Pea made me tear up. Still this was a truly amazing book. Loved it.

[Caly ☯ Crazy Book Lady · Rating 5 out of 5]

For animal lovers everywhere. Heart warming stories, a wonderful book.