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Women Save A Raccoon’s Life, He Keeps Coming Back To Them After Three Years
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Women Save A Raccoon’s Life, He Keeps Coming Back To Them After Three Years

Interview With Owner
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Three years ago, Nikki Robinson found a little raccoon by the road. She saved him and after a bunch of attempts at taking him to wildlife centers and vets, Nikki was disappointed in the lack of help. However, her mother Linda has had experience raising raccoons and after a little persuasion, took the little critter in. They named him Little Hands and fell in love with the trash panda.

Little Hands needed lots of love and support. Linda and Nikki fed him, raised him, and eventually let him go. To their surprise, Little Hands kept coming back, sometimes after a few days, sometimes a few months. He would come back and ask for snuggles, pets, food, and just love. Neither Nikki nor Linda have ever experienced such a loving raccoon.

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This raccoon was originally found abandoned beside the road at about 4 weeks old

Image credits: red_pangolin

“Little Hands was originally found abandoned beside the road at about 4 weeks old. We rescued him from the traffic and tried to find a wildlife rehab that would take him but everywhere was full and all they could offer was to ‘take it to a vet to be euthanized’ or ‘let nature take its course outside.’”

Nikki and her family rescued him, but all the wildlife rehabs were full and the clinics they went to said that they should euthanize him

Image credits: red_pangolin

“Instead, he was given to my mom, Linda, who has had some experience raising a raccoon so that it could be released into the wild. Two years earlier, I had picked up from a friend another orphaned raccoon that was found in a similar situation as Little Hands. I have always wanted to work in wildlife rehabilitation, but I was working full time. So, I asked my mom to help with many of the daily feedings. She was hesitant at first, but then I told her it was really in lieu of any grandchildren I would be giving her. Well, once the baby starts nursing from a bottle and looks her in the eye, she melts and it instantly becomes Mama’s coon.”

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However, Nikki knew her mom Linda would be perfect for the job of raising the little raccoon, now named Little Hands. Linda has had experience raising raccoons before

Image credits: red_pangolin

“So, Little Hands was fostered by Linda. He was released onto her large property and was allowed to come and go as he pleased. He was very fearful of any human or animal that he didn’t grow up with, but would come back to visit us most nights. Linda would leave food out for him every night and sit outside on the porch swing at night before bed, waiting for his visit. He would come less and less, and always at night, as it got colder. Sometimes, we wouldn’t see him for a month, and then on a clear night, he would show up and even let us approach him. But the first thing he would do, sometimes even before sniffing his food, is he would climb over to Linda on the swing, sit beside her, and want pats from her. He liked his lower back and chin rubbed the most.”

Linda fell in love with Little Hands and raised him like a baby

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Image credits: red_pangolin

“When we found Little Hands, he was dehydrated, hungry, very scared, but still very feisty. Little Hands stayed with us for about two and a half months before he was fully released into the wild. Little Hands has always been a calmer, peaceful raccoon. Very loving and compassionate, even as he matured. But still wild enough he thrives on his own.”

Little Hands had to be fed very often and needed a lot of care, attention, and love

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

We asked Nikki what their reaction was when Little Hands returned to them: “Pure joy. And every time he came back it was a more and more joyous occasion especially because he wanted our attention as well as our food which was all that much more special.”

After Little Hands grew up, he was released into the wild to live his full raccoon life

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Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

They tell us how many animals they have saved: “I think our total now is over 15 raccoons over 5 years. I’ve also worked with several other animals but none as close as the raccoons. My mom and I would like to open an official wildlife rehabilitation center in the future and I am working on getting more licenses and training for the different species. But in the end, we take the raccoons because no one else will due to their abundance in nature already. Every animal deserves a chance, right?”

But to Linda’s and Nikki’s surprise, Little Hands kept coming back to them

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

“This has gone on for 3 years! All the other releases have gone wild. The ones that were released at Linda’s house will still come and eat at night, sometimes bring their babies too, but they are scared of us and won’t approach us closely. Little Hands is just special and super adorable!”

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Nikki guessed why Little Hands returned to them: “I guess this is always his home. He knows he can come back for an easy meal, but some animals want more than a full stomach. Comfort and love.”

“The best part of saving animals is watching them grow, learn, thrive and mature. The Hardest Part, which is also one of the best parts, is release time. Usually, by the time of release, they’ve already been mostly on their own but still confined in an outdoor enclosure. When the time comes to do our soft release, we don’t know if we may see them again.”

No other raccoon they cared for has come back to visit that often or come up to snuggle with them

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

Nikki tells us more about herself: “I don’t like being in the spotlight myself, but I can say I’m passionate about animals, of all kinds. I’ve been in the vet field for a few years and we are educated in what we do. I’ve always loved animals and if I’m not working or rescuing them, I’m trying to photograph them in the wild! One day I’d love to be able to fund our rescue by selling photography prints since any wildlife rehab is expensive and 100% self-funded.”

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Little Hands is special. It’s been three years and he still comes back for snuggles, scratches, and, of course, food

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

“The other raccoons that were released at Linda’s house will still come and eat at night, sometimes bring their babies too, but they are scared of us and won’t approach closely. Little Hands is just special, and super adorable!”

Image credits: red_pangolin

Image credits: red_pangolin

“Be smart and safe if you are passionate about wildlife rehab/rescue. We did a lot of research and got licensed to do this where we live. It’s different in all states and countries, so check your laws. This is to protect you and the animal.”

“Be kind. We share the planet with so many creatures that need to be respected. Creatures that we mostly don’t understand, but are capable of complex social systems and emotions we often think are exclusive to humans.”

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rpder3737 avatar
Felix Feline
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Beautiful story, raccoon, and people! Thank you for your good work!

vickyz avatar
Vicky Z
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh my goodness how cute was this little baby!!! Aww animals are so grateful and never forget you if you are good to them!

dmarsh avatar
lindastorm2000 avatar
Linda HS
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a beautiful post! Love the fact that the girls didn't listen and did not put him down, but took matters in their hands and rescued this little cute baby raccoon. He is thriving! Good job ladies! Good luck Little Hands and may you live a beautiful life. I, too, have three raccoons that I care for, along with a momma skunk with two babies. Love them!🥰

monakhadra avatar
Mona
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So adorable ! I do hate when animal hospitals / clinics suggest to have the innocent animal euthanized and that you have to pay for it. I had this happen when my son found abandoned baby bunnies.

abdk333 avatar
K Witmer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat brought home a baby bunny. The wildlife reserve said the same thing so I took care of her. She lived for 4 yrs. she was sweet and loved my cat even though he stole her from her nest.

Load More Replies...
rl_2 avatar
R L
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good to see that he has adapted to living wild so well- they did a great job. Lovely story.

anneking68 avatar
StrawberryParfait
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Such beautiful little misunderstood animals. Not all raccoons carry rabies, and it is not their default to have rabies, contrary to what people think. I put cat food and water out on my porch for all the little nocturnal animals that visit, and there are always a few raccoons in the mix. The babies are beyond precious, and so curious.

debbyb avatar
Debby B
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on you! I get frustrated when people tell me not to leave food out; life is hard for all the critters, especially during deep winter or very hot summers like we get here. I put out leftover food (that's safe for wildlife) and fruit at the end of my backyard by the bushes. Water too when it's hot. Wish I could do more!!!

Load More Replies...
shaynameidela avatar
Dorothy Parker
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is the best racoon story. Is there a way to vaccinate the raccoons against rabies?

auroradarc avatar
Pangolin Pal
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, I believe they can be given the same rabies vaccine that cats and dogs get. Hope Little Hands' people take him in once a year for a life-saving shot!

Load More Replies...
loverleezack_1 avatar
Stephanie Hewitt
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm from Toronto, we LOVE our raccoons here and this made my day ❤️❤️❤️

comerfordsamantha46 avatar
Samantha PandaNotBored
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh I loved this story. I wish I knew more about this animal. Coming from England , I don’t get to read much about them. But they are bloody adorable

keerthivardhan avatar
Keerthi Vardhan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rocket doesn't forget anyone...this was while he was at his good behavior before Guardians of the galaxy.

zenamarsh avatar
Zena Marsh
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How lovely. He knows a kind loving human when he sees them. Long may it continue.

judysteelman avatar
Judy Steelman
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So beautiful. Thank you for taking care of this beautiful creature.

sugarducky avatar
Vivian Ashe
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know wild animals raised in captivity should be released into the wild if at all possible, because they're supposed to be happier that way. But I can't help thinking, if I were taken in as an infant and raised in, I dunno, the Prince's Palace of Monaco... and then one day they took me to my natural environment of Pittsburgh, PA and said, "Ok, Wild Human, you're free now!" I'd be pretty unhappy about it.

alexdureich avatar
Michigan Guy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i love coons. i do. i've had a few friends. but man...as much as...no. they're still wild. you have to understand that, or what you think of as a relationship will go buck wild quick...cute, and all. and smart, clever....but no. wild...

brettconnor avatar
Brett Connor
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a kid I also had a c**n. So the cat would chase the rabbit, Rocky chased the cat, and our dog chased all 3 of them around the house and yard. Funny as hell to watch. Dog howling all the way. Then when they were tired you have one big pile of fur piled up.

auroradarc avatar
Pangolin Pal
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Love Little Hands and his hoomans! One thing, though -- raccoons in the wild are very, very vulnerable to rabies. I hope his peeps take Little Hands to the vet once a year for a rabies vaccination.

ladyvischuss avatar
Ladyvischuss
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

À wonderful success story, but one should not try this without prior training.

jknbt2 avatar
jk nbt
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

raccoons can't be house/box trained... they poop a lot... also a warning, if you try to touch or pick up an adult raccoon that doesn't know you like this, they will try to tear you to pieces... little kids should always be warned & taught not to try to play with or handle raccoons.... if they let you touch or hold them, they most likely have rabies. Your child will die if the rabid raccoon bites them, and you don't take your child for immediate, expensive, painful treatment. So beware.

heathergregg avatar
H05
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They CAN be litter box trained. But, they should only be rehabbed by experienced licensed individuals. Loosing fear of humans when raised this way is usually a death sentence.

Load More Replies...
chris_hills avatar
Chris Hills
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please people, before you get any ideas, know that raccoons carry diseases. This is a cute story about a very cute animal, but... Raccoons are one of the primary carriers of rabies. Enough said.

auroradarc avatar
Pangolin Pal
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True, but this little guy is tame enough to be brought to the vet for shots.

Load More Replies...
rpder3737 avatar
Felix Feline
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Beautiful story, raccoon, and people! Thank you for your good work!

vickyz avatar
Vicky Z
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh my goodness how cute was this little baby!!! Aww animals are so grateful and never forget you if you are good to them!

dmarsh avatar
lindastorm2000 avatar
Linda HS
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a beautiful post! Love the fact that the girls didn't listen and did not put him down, but took matters in their hands and rescued this little cute baby raccoon. He is thriving! Good job ladies! Good luck Little Hands and may you live a beautiful life. I, too, have three raccoons that I care for, along with a momma skunk with two babies. Love them!🥰

monakhadra avatar
Mona
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So adorable ! I do hate when animal hospitals / clinics suggest to have the innocent animal euthanized and that you have to pay for it. I had this happen when my son found abandoned baby bunnies.

abdk333 avatar
K Witmer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat brought home a baby bunny. The wildlife reserve said the same thing so I took care of her. She lived for 4 yrs. she was sweet and loved my cat even though he stole her from her nest.

Load More Replies...
rl_2 avatar
R L
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good to see that he has adapted to living wild so well- they did a great job. Lovely story.

anneking68 avatar
StrawberryParfait
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Such beautiful little misunderstood animals. Not all raccoons carry rabies, and it is not their default to have rabies, contrary to what people think. I put cat food and water out on my porch for all the little nocturnal animals that visit, and there are always a few raccoons in the mix. The babies are beyond precious, and so curious.

debbyb avatar
Debby B
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on you! I get frustrated when people tell me not to leave food out; life is hard for all the critters, especially during deep winter or very hot summers like we get here. I put out leftover food (that's safe for wildlife) and fruit at the end of my backyard by the bushes. Water too when it's hot. Wish I could do more!!!

Load More Replies...
shaynameidela avatar
Dorothy Parker
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is the best racoon story. Is there a way to vaccinate the raccoons against rabies?

auroradarc avatar
Pangolin Pal
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, I believe they can be given the same rabies vaccine that cats and dogs get. Hope Little Hands' people take him in once a year for a life-saving shot!

Load More Replies...
loverleezack_1 avatar
Stephanie Hewitt
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm from Toronto, we LOVE our raccoons here and this made my day ❤️❤️❤️

comerfordsamantha46 avatar
Samantha PandaNotBored
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh I loved this story. I wish I knew more about this animal. Coming from England , I don’t get to read much about them. But they are bloody adorable

keerthivardhan avatar
Keerthi Vardhan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rocket doesn't forget anyone...this was while he was at his good behavior before Guardians of the galaxy.

zenamarsh avatar
Zena Marsh
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How lovely. He knows a kind loving human when he sees them. Long may it continue.

judysteelman avatar
Judy Steelman
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So beautiful. Thank you for taking care of this beautiful creature.

sugarducky avatar
Vivian Ashe
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know wild animals raised in captivity should be released into the wild if at all possible, because they're supposed to be happier that way. But I can't help thinking, if I were taken in as an infant and raised in, I dunno, the Prince's Palace of Monaco... and then one day they took me to my natural environment of Pittsburgh, PA and said, "Ok, Wild Human, you're free now!" I'd be pretty unhappy about it.

alexdureich avatar
Michigan Guy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i love coons. i do. i've had a few friends. but man...as much as...no. they're still wild. you have to understand that, or what you think of as a relationship will go buck wild quick...cute, and all. and smart, clever....but no. wild...

brettconnor avatar
Brett Connor
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a kid I also had a c**n. So the cat would chase the rabbit, Rocky chased the cat, and our dog chased all 3 of them around the house and yard. Funny as hell to watch. Dog howling all the way. Then when they were tired you have one big pile of fur piled up.

auroradarc avatar
Pangolin Pal
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Love Little Hands and his hoomans! One thing, though -- raccoons in the wild are very, very vulnerable to rabies. I hope his peeps take Little Hands to the vet once a year for a rabies vaccination.

ladyvischuss avatar
Ladyvischuss
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

À wonderful success story, but one should not try this without prior training.

jknbt2 avatar
jk nbt
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

raccoons can't be house/box trained... they poop a lot... also a warning, if you try to touch or pick up an adult raccoon that doesn't know you like this, they will try to tear you to pieces... little kids should always be warned & taught not to try to play with or handle raccoons.... if they let you touch or hold them, they most likely have rabies. Your child will die if the rabid raccoon bites them, and you don't take your child for immediate, expensive, painful treatment. So beware.

heathergregg avatar
H05
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They CAN be litter box trained. But, they should only be rehabbed by experienced licensed individuals. Loosing fear of humans when raised this way is usually a death sentence.

Load More Replies...
chris_hills avatar
Chris Hills
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please people, before you get any ideas, know that raccoons carry diseases. This is a cute story about a very cute animal, but... Raccoons are one of the primary carriers of rabies. Enough said.

auroradarc avatar
Pangolin Pal
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True, but this little guy is tame enough to be brought to the vet for shots.

Load More Replies...
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