What does an injured gosling in Oregon in 2007 have to do with Wild Instincts in Wisconsin in February 2012?

Plenty!

In the spring of 2007, a couple driving on Hawthorne Avenue in Salem, Oregon came upon an injured Canada Goose gosling. The couple carefully placed the gosling in a box and transported him to a local wildlife facility. The couple nick-named the little fellow “Gus” and were impressed that such a strong will to survive could come from such a small creature. Despite his strong will to live, Gus did not survive his injuries.

In early 2010, this same couple, along with several other animal supporters, established a foundation focused on supporting the work of non-profit animal charities. In the spirit of “Gus” from Hawthorne Avenue, the venture was named the Gus Hawthorne Foundation.

We’re proud to announce The Gus Hawthorne Foundation awarded Wild Instincts one of their 2012 grants. We were one of 14 chosen from a pool of 65 nationwide.

This grant will be used to purchase the stainless steel inset for the wet exam table and for the stainless steel tub for the cleaning room.

Wildlife rehabilitation is far-reaching, bringing people together for the sake of helping wildlife world-wide.

Thank you all for helping us help them-wherever they may be!