An injured fox cub, named Chance by his rescuers, is undergoing hydrotherapy sessions to aid his recovery after being hit by a car. Chance was found in Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire, in June with immobile back legs.
Vets initially considered euthanasia, but Mansfield Wildlife Rescue intervened to rehabilitate him. This rehabilitation includes assisted swimming at an indoor hydrotherapy pool, typically used by dogs at the Mansfield Canine Centre, to help him regain confidence and strength.
Chance has begun to use his back legs more, regaining sensation and kicking them in the water. His contact with humans has been limited to prepare him for release back into the wild if he fully recovers.
Cheryl Martins, founder of Mansfield Wildlife Rescue, stated that five foxes have been brought to the centre this year after being hit by vehicles, compared to two last year. She believes this increase is due to land development and hot weather forcing foxes to seek food in busier areas and at busier times.