Hudson Valley EMTs Free Helpless Skunk in Adorable Video

Normally, Emergency Medical Technicians are busy helping their fellow humans. On a recent late night in the Hudson Valley, however, several EMTs joined together to help a more nontraditional patient.

The Hudson Valley is a nature lover's paradise, but while the beautiful scenery and fascinating animals help make the region special, problems often arise when critters leave the woods and wander into human territory.

Animals in Human Spaces in the Hudson Valley

While there are many ways an animal can get in trouble, some are more avoidable than others. Taking down bird feeders and securing trash cans during active bear season, for example, is common knowledge for many Hudson Valley residents (remember New Paltz's grocery-stealing bear?). Other hazards as less well-known.

Read More: Have You Seen New York's 'Mission Impossible' Bear?

Common Backyard Items Can Be Hazards for Wild Animals

This year there have been several pleas from local wildlife rescue organizations regarding backyard soccer nets, which can cause harm and even be fatal to birds, deer, and other animals who get snared in the webbing (below). But back to the skunk...

Peekskill, NY EMTs Help Rescue Stranded Skunk

Recently, the Peekskill Community Volunteer Ambulance Corps shared a video of several of their volunteers going beyond the call of duty to assist a helpless skunk. The animal, who had a cup stuck on its head, was wandering aimlessly in the street before the EMTs could come to its rescue.

As the caption shared, the EMTs were transporting a patient when they noticed the incapacitated animal. After caring for their human subject, the ambulance volunteers went back to locate the four-legged friend, who was found wandering on Brown Street in Peekskill, NY. With a little patience, the animal was soon freed.

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"The best part of this video is the smile on the face of the officer!!! THANKYOU SOOOOO MUCH!", gushed one commenter. "Thank you for helping the skunk in distress. How wonderful and thank you for your empathy and compassion. Well done!!", shared another. Check out more local animal rescues below.