The information in this section is to address the immediate are needs of a young foundling fawn until a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian can be contacted.

What do I do with the fawn while I call for help?
Place the fawn in a warm, darkened, quiet place away from people, pets and air-conditioning. A large cardboard box or laundry basket works well. Cover the opening with a towel.

The fawn looks so thin and hungry. What do I feed it?
Fawns younger than one week of age appear to be "skin and bones". This is normal. Water or rehydrating solution (Pedialyte) may be offered if the fawn is alert. DO NOT FEED COW'S MILK/FORMULAS. Many fawns, especially sick ones, cannot tolerate cow's milk, calf formula replacers or human baby formulas.

What is the best way to remove fire ants from the fawn?
Brush the ants from the face first, then body and legs. Check the ears, mouth, belly and under the tail for additional ants. Do not wash the fawn to remove ants. This can lower the fawn's body temperature, creating additional problems. A rehabilitator or veterinarian should remove fire ants that are attached to the eyelids.

This fawn is cold. What do I do?
Warm a towel in the clothes dryer or microwave oven. The towel should be warm but not hot to the touch. Wrap the fawn in the towel and place in a cardboard box or laundry basket away form drafts and air-conditioning.

This fawn has diarrhea. What do I do?
Since some types of diarrhea can be transmitted to people, handle the fawn wearing disposable gloves, if available. Wash your hands well in warm soapy water after touching the fawn. A fawn with diarrhea needs immediate medical care.

How do I transport the fawn?
The fawn can be transported in a cardboard box or laundry basket. Place a towel over the fawn to insulate from drafts. Cover the box opening with another towel. To avoid cold stress, keep the temperature inside the car warm.