What’s your spirit animal? For the unique Kat Wysocki, it’s a skunk. Kat leads Pet Skunk Advocates and Rescue, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, fostering, and adopting skunks. You may have seen her pushing a baby stroller loaded with a litter of these black-and-white critters.
Kat takes the skunks around the city to socialize them. Her route begins at Red Mesa Mercado, then stops at the police department, where officers pet the skunks, and ends at Ferg’s. At each stop, patrons are invited to handle the skunks (don’t worry, their scent glands have been removed).
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Kat fell in love with skunks in high school. When her mom’s friend, who made custom stuffed animals, asked what kind she wanted, Kat confidently replied, “I want a skunk.” Of course, the stuffed version wasn’t quite as satisfying as the real one she got shortly after. She named her skunk “Flower,” and the rest is history.
“[Skunks] are terminal toddlers,” says Kat. “They are so funny.”
Kat works to change unfair wildlife laws
First and foremost, Pet Skunk Advocates and Rescue aims to inform the public that skunks require care, especially medical attention. “People can donate,” Kat says, “but most importantly, we want to educate people about skunks.”
As part of her advocacy, Kat warns against purchasing skunks from breeders, citing unethical practices. “Shady stuff goes on,” she explains. “And I never liked the idea of making money off animals.”
Her efforts also extend to legislation. Kat is currently working to appeal laws that allow experimentation on skunks and other animals. “We are also pushing to change unfair wildlife laws and introduce new legislation in areas where it’s illegal to rescue or even help any rabies-vector species. Every life deserves a chance to be helped or to pass with dignity and love.”
Volunteer and adoption opportunities
For anyone interested in having a skunk as a pet, Pet Skunk Advocates and Rescue offers skunks for adoption. As a nonprofit, they only charge the veterinarian’s bill. Important note: if you intend to adopt a skunk, make sure they are truly the right pet for you.
If you are interested in volunteering or donating, visit their website.
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