Found injured by a roadside near Trail and carried to safety in a pillowcase, a tiny bear cub has become a symbol of compassion and hope.
The Northern Lights Wildlife Society — a registered Canadian charity in Smithers that cares for injured and orphaned wildlife — shared the cub’s story in a June 1 email titled “a story of perseverance and kindness.”
The story was sent to the Williams Lake Tribune, then forwarded to the Trail Times, as Trail is where the little bear’s journey began.
The society explained how it all started with an unusual call.
“Someone reported to have found a bear cub on the road near Trail and had picked it up, currently holding it in a pillowcase?” the society recounts, understandably perplexed about carrying a baby bear in a piece of bed linen.
“Honestly, I was pretty confused by that statement but concluded that the cub must be in rough shape.”
With the help of volunteers, the cub was rushed to a local vet.
X-rays revealed a badly broken femur (thigh bone).
For the cub to survive, surgery and plating were necessary. At just 4.5 pounds, the little bear faced a daunting recovery.
“For every rehabber this becomes a difficult decision, cost for one versus others that might need rescue,” the society shares.
Unable to turn their backs on her, the society arranged for surgery at Nelson Animal Hospital, where Dr. Celeste Bignell performed the operation.
The society said: “Our little fighter pulled through just fine, and with the help of several driving volunteers, made her way from Nelson to Smithers.”
Named Gimlet by the doctor and volunteers, she has captured hearts ever since.
“Being the smallest cub in care and climbing and playing despite her injury, the spirit of this little warrior is an inspiration to us all.”
Gimlet is now rehabbing up north, living up to her name — tiny but mighty.
She will need a follow-up vet visit in the Smithers area within four weeks to have her plate removed.
The society says they have high hopes she’ll handle it with her usual pluck.
To support Gimlet’s rehabilitation and that of other animals in care, the organization is gratefully accepting donations.
Visit the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter’s website, wildlifeshelter.com, and click on the “Donate” button to be directed to a CanadaHelps.org link.
