Joe Kahlo
After Hurricane Ida struck New Orleans last month, a certain 15-year-old stepped up to help a few tiny souls in need
Bailee Vilavaso and her family were forced to evacuate their homes during the powerful storm, but not before she helped save the life of three squirrels.
She spotted their nest on the floor after it had fallen out of a tree nearby due to the hurricane-force winds.
She found three baby squirrels inside, and no mother in sight, so Bailee knew she had to help, she ran home and got a box and towel.
“I dried off the squirrels with the towel and put them in the box with bedding,” she told The Dodo. “The squirrels were extremely lethargic, and huddled up to stay warm.”
But she didn’t stop there…
Bailee contacted a veterinarian to learn about how to feed and take care of the squirrel babies. She became their official adoptive mother.
“Once the squirrels had eaten, they started to gain energy. After about 24 hours, they perked up enough to run and play,” said Bailee. “The squirrels started climbing and running on me.”
She named them Alvin, Simon and Theodore.
When Bailee evacuated her home, she took the squirrels with her, keeping them safe, and clearly, the squirrels appreciated her.
“I have reached out to some animal rehabbers, but was told they were overwhelmed with squirrels after the hurricane,” she said. “I will continue to reach out to animal rehab centers.”
Before one gets back to her, she is happy to look after the little fur babies.
“I am definitely an animal lover!” Villavaso said.
