Desert Rose Exotic Rescue

05/29/2026

Take a look at what someone created with ChatGPT.

05/29/2026

Skunks are the most polite animals in North America.

They ALWAYS warn you before spraying.

THE WARNING SEQUENCE (in order)

1. Foot stomping — rapid stamping of front feet ("Hey! I'm here!")
2. Hissing — defensive vocalization ("Back off!")
3. Tail raise — tail goes straight up ("This is your LAST chance")
4. Handstand — some species lift onto their front paws ("I’m not kidding")
5. Spray — only after ALL warnings are ignored

THE SPRAY

Contains sulfur compounds (thiols) — similar chemistry to garlic, but far stronger

Accurate up to 10–15 feet

Can be smelled up to 1.5 miles away

Skunks carry only 5–6 sprays before needing over a week to replenish

They don’t want to waste it — which is why they warn you first

WHY SKUNKS ARE ACTUALLY AMAZING

They dig up and eat yellow jacket nests

They eat grubs, beetles, and pest insects

They eat mice and young rats

They eat venomous spiders

Their digging aerates your soil

They are mostly nocturnal — you rarely see them

RIGHT NOW (SPRING SEASON)

Baby skunks — called kits — are being born

4–7 kits per litter

Eyes open at around 3 weeks

They can spray at about 8 days old (but are tiny and inaccurate)

Mother leads them in a single-file line while foraging

One of the most surprisingly gentle family scenes in nature

IF YOU ENCOUNTER A SKUNK

Stop. Do not run

Back away slowly

Speak softly

Give it a clear escape path

If it starts stomping its feet — that is your signal to leave

THE RULE

Four warnings. Every time.

The most courteous animal in the wild. 🦨

05/28/2026

05/25/2026

If you are Intersted by July we should have several available please message or text if Intersted

05/24/2026

Thanks to our great volunteers
Janella Poch and
Alyssa Poch
There the greatest help

05/24/2026

05/23/2026

🐢💚 Happy World Turtle Day 2026! 🌊🌿

Today, we celebrate turtles and tortoises of all kinds! From sea turtles navigating our oceans to tortoises roaming far inland. As veterinarians, we recognize their unique medical needs, from managing shell injuries to the intricacies of appropriate lighting and diets, and the critical role they play in our ecosystems.
World Turtle Day reminds us to strengthen our commitment to conservation medicine, habitat protection, and responsible care. Together, we can ensure these incredible reptiles thrive for generations to come.
What’s a turtle or tortoise case that made an impact on your career or studies? Share your story below! 👇✨