The Ultimate DIY Car Kit to Rescue Wildlife

Keep this rescue kit in your car for sick or injured wildlife emergencies

Would you be able to help an injured animal on the road if you came across one? Having a well-prepared wildlife rescue kit in your car could save a koala’s life in emergency situations. Below is a guide on what to include in your DIY koala rescue kit and essential steps to take if you come across a koala in need.

What to include in your wildlife rescue car kit 

• First aid kit
• Cardboard box 
• Towels 
• Disposable gloves 
• Pen and paper (to write down the exact location of where the injured animal was found) 
• Scissors 
• Blanket 
• Torch 
• Pillowcase 

If you do encounter a koala on the road in Queensland, call 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) or your local wildlife rescue. Until professional help arrives, you can use your wildlife rescue car kit to keep the koala in need safe and it can also help in transporting them to the nearest wildlife rescue centre. Find your closest wildlife hospital or veterinarian here.

Key Items for Your Koala Rescue Kit

1. First Aid Kit for Wildlife
   Your kit should include basic first aid supplies such as bandages, saline solution for cleaning wounds, antiseptic cream, and gloves. While you shouldn’t attempt advanced care, these items can help stabilise the koala before professional assistance arrives.
2. Cardboard Box
   A sturdy cardboard box is essential for transporting an injured or displaced koala. The box should be large enough for the koala to lie down without being cramped but not so large that the animal can move around excessively, as this could cause further injury. Ensure the box has holes for proper ventilation, but avoid too many holes that could allow the koala’s claws to get stuck. Place a soft towel or blanket at the bottom to make the koala comfortable during transport. The box should be kept in a cool, shaded area, and should be secured to prevent the koala from escaping until professional help arrives.
3. Thick Blanket or Towel
   Koalas have sharp claws and can be stressed easily. If you need to approach an injured koala, use a thick blanket or towel to gently cover the animal before attempting to handle it. This will help calm the koala and protect you from scratches.
4. Pillowcase or Cloth Bag
   If a young koala or a small, immobile koala needs rescuing, a pillowcase or soft cloth bag is useful for transporting it. Ensure it’s breathable. Avoid using plastic bags as they can restrict airflow.