A male garter snake named Carl, found in critical condition in September 2024 after a predator attack, made a full recovery after seven months of intensive care at Shades of Hope Wildlife Refuge in Pefferlaw, rural Ontario. Carl had extensive wounds, including a large gash, exposed ribs, and a mangled tail. He was released in May 2025, a recovery initially thought impossible.
Critically injured snake overcomes odds after 7 months of care
Barrie
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️A male garter snake named Carl, found in critical condition in September 2024 after a predator attack, made a full recovery after seven months of intensive care at Shades of Hope Wildlife Refuge in Pefferlaw, rural Ontario. Carl had extensive wounds, including a large gash, exposed ribs, and a mangled tail. He was released in May 2025, a recovery initially thought impossible.
- 1 September 2024: Carl found in critical condition on a rural property.
- 2 For nearly three months (Sept-Dec 2024): Carl required daily care and weekly check-ups.
- 3 February 2025: Carl's wounds had healed, and he was eating whole prey.
- 4 May 2025: Carl was deemed ready for release and released.
- Carl was successfully rehabilitated and returned to the wild, demonstrating the effectiveness of dedicated wildlife rescue and care.
What: A critically injured male garter snake named Carl made a full recovery and was released.
When: Found in September 2024; cared for nearly three months initially, then seven months total; full recovery by February 2025; released in May 2025.
Where: Rural Ontario, specifically Pefferlaw (Shades of Hope Wildlife Refuge).
Why: Carl sustained extensive wounds from a predator attack, including a large gash from his head to belly, exposed ribs, and a mangled tail.
How: Dr. Wendy and her team at Shades of Hope provided intensive wound care, pain therapy, and antibiotics. They also worked to overcome feeding difficulties by gradually increasing prey size to stretch scar tissue.