Whispering
Woods

For many years of my adult life I jokingly, but persistently, asked my dad to get me a “pet” raccoon. At the time, I didn’t know that keeping raccoons as pets was illegal in New York State. It was simply a running joke between us, rooted in my lifelong love for wildlife and a fascination with these clever, curious animals.

After my father passed away, life shifted in ways I never could have planned. Eventually, I moved into his house, carrying memories, grief, and the uncertainty of what came next. Within just one month of living there, a coworker approached me with a situation that would change everything: they had found a baby raccoon who needed help.

I took that baby in. I named him Dougie and in that moment, everything changed.

What began as an emotional experience that felt like a sign quickly became a wake-up call. I learned that raising a raccoon without proper licensing was illegal. Not because these animals aren’t lovable, but because wildlife requires specialized, knowledgeable care, and because keeping wildlife wild truly matters.

Instead of turning away from that truth, I let it guide me forward.

Dougie became the catalyst for everything that followed. He pushed me to do things the right way. Dougie pushed me to learn, to grow, and ultimately to become a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. There was no turning back after that. What began with one small raccoon became a lifelong commitment to helping native wildlife safely, legally, and compassionately.

In 2020, that commitment became Whispering Woods Wildlife.

Founded by Wendi Czirr, Whispering Woods Wildlife was built on a deep respect for each animal’s individual needs and a belief in ethical, compassionate rehabilitation. Through years of hands-on experience, calm patience, and behavior-based care, Whispering Woods has grown into a trusted refuge for injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife throughout central New York.

In 2025, Whispering Woods expanded its mission to include a canine recovery program, providing behavior-led support for lost, fearful, and displaced dogs across Oswego County, NY. Using the same principles that guide wildlife rehabilitation. Understanding behavior, rebuilding trust, and meeting animals where they are,this program helps dogs feel safe again and, whenever possible, reunites them with their families.

Today, Dougie’s story lives on as more than a memory. He represents the moment passion became purpose, and the foundation of everything Whispering Woods stands for. From native wildlife to lost dogs, this work exists because one small raccoon reminded us that doing the right thing can change everything.