Oomfy – Helping orphaned animals

How does an animal become orphaned?

Rainstorms destroy animal homes or otherwise separate babies from their mothers.

Well-intentioned but misguided philanthropists bring in babies that were left alone only briefly by their mothers.

Mothers exposed to external stress during birthing may reject their babies.

How are these orphans found?

Wildlife rangers mostly discover the animals during their rounds but sometimes tourists and visitors bring them in.

Most animals are orphaned during spring – the stormy and baby season – but orphans are discovered year round.

What happens during the rescue?

When the rangers first discover an orphaned animal they will try to reunite the animal with its mother – if she can be found. An experienced caregiver usually assists them.

The orphan, when discovered, is usually distressed, dehydrated, starving and in a state of hypothermia.  The caregiver will first re-warm and re-hydrate the orphan to stabilize it. Mammals may be taken to the veterinarian for a check-up and inoculation.

How are the orphans rehabilitated?

Successful rehabilitation largely depends on exposing the animal to as little stress as possible and minimizing human contact.  Only the caretaker touches and interacts with the animal, as otherwise it will become accustomed to or even dependent on humans, which will jeopardize its survival in the wild.

Sucklings feed on a special formula that is specially prepared for their species.  Weaned animals feed on a diet similar to what they’ll eat in the wild.

The environment in which the animals are rehabilitated are kept warm and dry and voices are kept low and calming. The animals are given medical attention if needed.

When are the animals released?

The animals are rehabilitated over a period of a few weeks to more than a year, depending on the species. Once they are old enough to fend for themselves, they are released back into the wild, close to where they were originally found.

Where does the name Oomfy come from?

The page “What’s an Oomfy?” explains the origin of the name.

Who pays for all of this?

We fully finance care taking of the animals up to release. Funding comes from the sale of stuffed animals, and other products, that represent the orphaned animals and their stories.  Please browse our products online or fill in the Wholesale Inquiry Form to receive a printed catalog.