Nevada – A bear severely injured in the Davis Fire is receiving care at an animal sanctuary in the state. Rescue crews discovered the bear, now named Nugget, off Granite Ridge Road near Washoe City.

Nugget suffered third-degree burns on his paws and sustained additional burns to his face and bottom. After being rescued by Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue, he was transported to the Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary for immediate treatment.

The sanctuary is providing Nugget with the necessary care to aid in his recovery. To maintain his wild instincts, the bear will receive minimal human contact during his rehabilitation.

“He has very serious burns on his paws, and he has a long road to recovery,” said NDOW veterinarian Nate LeHue. “However, he is a wild bear, and we hope to send him back to the wild.”

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) expressed gratitude for the Animal Ark’s assistance. Director Alan Jenne emphasized that NDOW is not equipped to handle long-term rehabilitation for wildlife and praised the sanctuary’s expertise.

As Nugget continues his recovery, the hope is that he will eventually be able to return to his natural habitat.

Source: Fox 5 Vegas