State Sends Snowball to Molalla Elk Ranching Facility

According to state wildlife veterinarian Peregrine Wolff, the doe suffers from congenital and degenerative conditions, making her permanently disabled.

Snowball, the black-tailed doe removed from a private residence in Molalla where it was being illegally held, will be placed in Molalla at Rosse Posse Acres, an ODFW-licensed elk ranching facility, where she can receive the medical care she will need for the rest of her life ODFW announced yesterday. Photo courtesy: rosseposseacres.com

(MOLALLA, Ore. ) - Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife staff announced Wednesday that Snowball, the black-tailed doe removed from a private residence in Molalla where it was being illegally held, will be placed in Molalla at Rosse Posse Acres, an ODFW-licensed elk ranching facility, where she can receive the medical care she will need for the rest of her life.

“This decision will provide the doe with the long-term care she needs and is consistent with Oregon’s wildlife laws,” said Ron Anglin, ODFW Wildlife Division administrator.

“The Ross’ have a licensed facility and they have a very good knowledge of the needs of deer and elk.”

According to state wildlife veterinarian Peregrine Wolff, the doe suffers from congenital and degenerative conditions, making her permanently disabled.

“The doe suffers pain from arthritis and her deformities. We have been able to alleviate some of her pain by trimming her hooves and giving her pain medication, but she will need to be monitored for the rest of her life,” said Dr. Wolff.

“We are delighted to be able to provide a home for the doe,” said Alan Ross. “Because she can’t go back to the wild, we want to give her the best care we can on our ranch.”

The Ross’ raise a herd of about 90 elk on their 52-acre ranch, which is open to the public. Snowball will live in an enclosed area where she is safe and will receive regular veterinary care.

Since the doe and a yearling black-tail buck were removed from the private residence on Sept. 12, ODFW biologists and veterinarians have been caring for them.

Last week, the buck, named Bucky, was released into the Bull Run Watershed by ODFW veterinarians and wildlife staff. The area requires special permits to enter and is off limits to hunters.

State wildlife biologists remind Oregonians that, if you care about young wildlife, leave them in the wild.

Every year, well-intentioned Oregonians “rescue” young animals and birds they believe have been abandoned, greatly reducing the animal's chance of survival.

If you believe an animal or bird is in danger or seriously hurt, call a local ODFW office or the Oregon State Police.