Fox gets hydrotherapy at Mansfield Canine Centre – Credit: Tom Maddick / SWNS
A fox cub that was left for dead after being hit by a car is making a miracle recovery thanks to hydrotherapy swimming sessions.
The young kit, aptly named Chance, was reportedly stuck for days with its back legs unable to function after the accident last June in Nottinghamshire, England.
A member of the public raised the alarm after seeing the injured fox, which a veterinarian initially feared would have to be put down.
But wildlife rescuers took him into their care and started a painstaking rehabilitation program that now includes assisted swims in a hydrotherapy pool normally used by recovering dogs.
Chance was vaccinated before receiving free sessions at the Mansfield Canine Centre, where his designated caretaker Chelsea guides him through the hydrotherapy waters.
According to their website, “hydrotherapy is a highly effective, low-impact treatment used to support dogs with injuries, medical conditions, post-operative recovery, and long-term mobility issues. Using the natural resistance and buoyancy of water, hydrotherapy helps dogs regain strength, improve movement, and recover safely under professional guidance.”
Fox gets hydrotherapy at Mansfield Canine Centre – Credit: Tom Maddick / SWNS
Chance the fox has started using his back legs more to support himself, is regaining sensation and can now kick them while in the water.
To give him the best possible chance of returning to the wild, contact with humans has been kept to a minimum. And, if his recovery continues, rescuers hope he can one day be released back into the English countryside.
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Cathy Fraser, who works at the canine centre, said the transformation had been incredible.
“When you see that it looked like there was no chance he was going to survive, to now, it’s just an incredible journey and to be a part of it is just so lucky.
“It’s amazing that this little act of kindness is going to go a long way to potentially Chance being released and living a full, wild life, like he should.”
Mansfield Wildlife Rescue founder Cheryl Martins said the centre had seen a worrying rise in foxes being struck by vehicles this year. She explained how the super-hot weather has definitely been the main driver.
“A lot of the rodents that they would normally find and hunt are keeping out of the way because of the weather.”
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“They’re moving more into towns and cities looking for food, so they’re getting into the busier roads while they’re out searching.”
Fortunately, the rescue centre located in Mansfield is ready to help. They’ve nursed back to health five foxes hit by vehicles this year.
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