A two-hour standoff on Monday night did not result in the desired outcome, but a dedicated group of Vancouver West End residents are determined to save 'Bubbles' the skunk, no matter what.
Global first reported on this skunk last week, and it appears the spry critter has had a plastic cup lid stuck around its neck since it was young.
A dedicated group of residents, led by Drina Read, are working hard to save the skunk, and almost accomplished the job last night, but Bubbles got away.
"I had just gotten home from work, and I ran out," said Read after receiving the call Bubbles had been sighted.
That call came from two volunteers with the Vancouver Orphaned Kitten Rescue Association, (VOKRA), who were out looking for an emaciated kitten in need of help, according to a press release.
They spotted Bubbles at Gordon Neighbourhood House at Nelson and Broughton Streets, and recognized him from the recent media attention as it appeared he was trying to scrape the lid off its neck by rubbing it on the ground.
By the time Read and a group of rescuers arrived they managed to track Bubbles to to Barclay Heritage Square at Nicola and Barclay, and then called the Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C. as the skunk will need medical attention.
Two hours later the terrified creature eluded capture, but his guardian angels are not giving up.
“We vow to go out every night until we can save him,” said rescuer Tracy Dundass. “We love animals and we are not afraid to help this animal in distress.”
"That was only our second attempt at going out," added Read. "We're very committed."
“We are thankful that the VOKRA volunteers called us right away,” she continued. “We saw the kitten the night before when we were searching for the skunk in the same general area, so we should be able to help locate both animals to save each of them from starvation or worse.”
Bubbles, who is named so because he makes Read think of Bubble Tea due to his sprightly personality, needs medical attention, and if anyone sees the critter they are asked to call Read at 604-331-1532, Tracy Dundass at 604-802-2254 or Jude Torchuk at 604-916-4344 or contact Read by e-mail at drinaread@yahoo.ca
Do not try and pick him up or feed him.
If anyone sees the small white cat with grey spots and a tabby black-and-white striped tail, contact Shirley Haun with the Vancouver Orphaned Kitten Rescue at 604-619-7019 or by e-mail at santafe@telus.net
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