Walden’s Puddle Serves Wildlife in Middle Tennessee

In the quiet town of Joelton just north of Nashville there is a refuge for injured wildlife called Walden’s Puddle. This 14 acre rehabilitation facility began in 1989 through the work of Vicky Carder, and is now moving forward with the help of musician and philanthropist Lane Brody.

Walden’s Puddle admits over 3,500 animals into their care each year and handles over 150 different species of wildlife. There is no charge for services and they receive no government funding. About 92 percent of donations to Walden’s Puddle go back into the mission preserving wildlife, not funding pricey administrative costs.

In June of this year, Walden’s Puddle suffered a tragic fire that started in the laundry room. No paper bedding is used in cages because ingesting paper is harmful to the animals, so linens are almost constantly being washed to make clean bedding available. After losing a machine and many animal lives to the fire, Walden’s Puddle is throwing the Fall Call of the Wild Fire Recovery and Benefit fundraising event to help meet some of their needs.

The Fall Call of the Wild Fundraiser will be held at Sound Kitchen Recording Studio & Events Facility, 112 Seaboard Lane in Franklin starting at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, November 7. There is no ticket price for the event, but Walden’s Puddle is asking attendees to give as they are able. There will be appetizers, wine, beer, a silent and live auction, animal presentation and memorial tribute. 

Walden’s Puddle is the only professionally staffed wildlife rehabilitation facility in Middle Tennessee. If you find an injured animal leave a message with their admissions line at 615-299-9938 clearly stating your phone number. Most calls are returned within 24-hours, but if you don’t hear back soon try leaving a message again.