I would like to thank veterinarian Charles Coleman and his staff at Pet Medical Center in Pasco, not only for their medical expertise, but also for their caring compassion in treating a wild animal.

Wintertime and cold temperatures are stressful to us all, but these conditions can have serious complications for a hurt wild animal.

A young raccoon had been visiting our residence during the past two months in the evenings and would eat at our cat's outdoor food station. We noticed that he was always alone and moved very slowly, carrying his left rear leg. We suspected he had a broken rear leg. We knew that he would probably not last through this winter. I contacted several agencies and inquired if any could provide relief for this animal. None could. I was eventually referred to Dr. Coleman, as I was told that he alone was the only veterinarian who was licensed to work on wild animals in the Tri-Cities. My son and I were able to humanely trap this raccoon and bring it to Dr. Coleman for an exam. He was able to confirm and treat the broken leg. I am glad to know that compassion for wild animals, as well as domestic, can be found at Dr. Coleman's Pet Medical Center in Pasco.

Ron Vocht, Burbank