Kentucky Woman Rescues 300 Wild Animals Each Year

When an injured raccoon appeared on Amanda Moore's doorstep three years ago, she couldn't find anyone to help. That moment of frustration sparked something bigger: Furry Fixers Wildlife Rescue in Sadieville, Kentucky, which now cares for 60 animals at a time.

Moore earned her wildlife rehabilitation permit from Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife in 2023 after completing a two-day class, written test, and property inspection. The permit allows her to care for injured, sick, or orphaned wild mammals before releasing them back into nature.

Last year alone, 300 animals passed through her care. Raccoons, skunks, squirrels, gray foxes, and fawns all find temporary homes at Furry Fixers.

The rehabilitation process starts with orphaned babies who need bottle-feeding using specialized formula. As they grow stronger, animals move to large outdoor enclosures where they practice wild behaviors.

Before release, Moore places animals in forest cages with food and water nearby. This gives them a safe home base while they learn to navigate their natural habitat.

Running the rescue isn't cheap. Moore pays about 50 percent of costs from her hairdressing income, with donations covering the rest. Large batches of animal formula regularly cost hundreds of dollars.

Four registered volunteers help care for the animals directly, while others assist with laundry, cleaning, inventory, and phone calls. It's around-the-clock work driven by people who love wildlife.

Why This Inspires

Volunteer Renee Chew recently joined the team and says watching animals recover changes how you see nature. "When you get one that's hurt, and then you see it rehabbed and released back out into the wild, it's so heartwarming," she said.

Moore discovered an unexpected bonus to her work. People who bring injured animals often feel desperate and alone, searching for someone who cares enough to help.

"I didn't really realize that's what it does, too," Moore said. "I've had other people tell me, 'You saved me. I didn't know what I was gonna do. Nobody would call me back.'"

What started as one woman helping one raccoon has grown into a sanctuary that heals both wildlife and the humans who care about them. Moore sees her work as completing something essential: protecting the creatures that share our world.