Island Wildlife Natural Care Centre

Founded in 1997 by veterinarian and wildlife rehabilitator Jeff Lederman, the Island Wildlife Natural Care Centre (IWNCC) is a registered charity and wildlife hospital located on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia. With a deep commitment to the welfare of individual animals, IWNCC specializes in the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned seal pups, injured raptors, and other wildlife from the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island.

What sets this center apart is its integrative approach to treatment. While conventional veterinary care is part of their toolkit, IWNCC also emphasizes alternative, non-toxic therapies such as homeopathy, herbal medicine, and physical rehabilitation. This holistic philosophy reflects their belief that every animal deserves a chance at recovery and a return to the wild, regardless of its species or conservation status.

The center operates year-round and holds permits from the Ministry of the Environment, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Notably, IWNCC does not keep display animals or permanent captives, underscoring their dedication to true rehabilitation. As a nonprofit organization, IWNCC is funded through private donations, as well as foundation and government grants.