December 2008 – So many of the successful Greenwood tales are those of compassion and perseverance. The story of the Swift Fox, a species rare to Colorado, is no exception. Found immobile by the side of the road last fall, this young girl was brought to the Center by our veterinary colleague,  Dr. Combs.

While scraped and bruised, the major concern was a serious eye abrasion. Was the eye salvageable? If not, her chances of hunting and surviving were nil. That’s when our team went to work. Her eye needed constant lubrication. The lid was swollen, hemorrhaged, and rolled back-she was unable to close it.

During the first few days, this little fox was limp, unresponsive and lethargic, just whimpering occasionally. A week later, with continual treatment, she was more energetic – standing up and moving about. Within a month, she was very active and progressed to the point of growling – what a milestone! Her dull, unfocused look faded and her eyes became bright and watchful. After normal results on an eye exam, she was released on the plains of eastern Colorado, within a mile of where she was found.

Quoting our Animal Care Staff Member Nicki, “To say that the eyes are windows to the soul is never more true than with wildlife. A spark of fear or distrust in an animal’s eyes becomes a spark of hope for a rehabilitator. As she left her carrier, this young fox recognized that her place was out on the open prairie, far away from the confinements of Greenwood.”