The Rescue Story of Hickory – Axis Deer

  • Name

    Hickory

  • Species

    Axis Deer

  • Condition at Rescue

    Scared and tired

  • Disposition

    Skittish yet curious
Hickory

Rescued On

August 2025

Rescue Location

Rescued during transportation by individuals who could no longer care for him

Current Status

Enjoying life at the sanctuary with his siblings, Hazel and Holly, where he is growing and adapting to a safe environment.
Rescue Background Story

Rescue Background Story

Hickory and his sister Hazel were being transported by someone who initially planned to care for them but later changed their mind during the journey. The animals had already endured a long and stressful trip, and the transporters feared they might not survive the night if a safe place was not found quickly.

The sanctuary stepped in and accepted the young deer immediately. Once they arrived, Hickory and his sister were given proper care, nutrition, and a secure enclosure where they could recover from the stress of transport.

Today, he lives comfortably with his siblings and continues to grow stronger each day.

When you donate or sponsor, you become part of their rescue journey — from survival to sanctuary.

Your kindness gives them the second chance they deserve.

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Daily Care & Feeding Details

Morning Feeding Protocol

Time: 6:00 AM

Feed Mix:

  • Bottle-fed milk formula, which currently costs approximately $8 per day per deer.
  • Hickory is gradually beginning to graze on grass and hay as part of the weaning process.
  • This feeding routine supports proper growth while transitioning him toward a natural grazing diet.
Midday Feeding

Time: 12:00 AM

Feed Mix:
Bottle-fed milk formula, which currently costs approximately $8 per day per deer.

Evening Feeding Protocol

Time: 6:00 PM

Feed Mix:

  • Bottle-fed milk formula continues as the primary nutrition source while Hickory slowly adapts to grazing and hay consumption.
  • Supplemental hay is provided to encourage natural feeding behavior.
Midnight Feeding

Time: 12:00 PM

Feed Mix:

Bottle-fed milk formula, which currently costs approximately $8 per day per deer.

Fencing & Enclosure Maintenance

Hickory lives in a newly constructed enclosure designed specifically for the three young axis deer.

The enclosure provides ample foliage, natural cover, and space for movement, allowing the deer to feel secure while adjusting to their new home.

Staff regularly inspect fencing and habitat features to ensure the enclosure remains safe and secure.

Water Facilities

The axis deer have 24/7 access to fresh water through a trough placed within their enclosure.

Water sources are monitored daily to ensure cleanliness and proper hydration for the growing deer.

Hygiene & Cleaning
  • Feeding and water areas are checked daily by sanctuary staff.
  • Enclosure grounds are monitored to ensure safe and clean living conditions.
  • Natural vegetation and open space help maintain a healthy environment for the young deer.

Medical Care & Progress Updates

  • Initial health evaluation was performed when Hickory arrived at the sanctuary.
  • Bottle-feeding was started to ensure proper nutrition during early development.
  • Sanctuary staff monitor his growth and overall health regularly.
  • Veterinary support is available through Safari Veterinary Care Centers if additional care is required.
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Gallery

Life at the Sanctuary

Joyful mornings. Lazy afternoons. Playful evenings.

Our residents enjoy every moment of their new life — and you can be part of it!
Watch the magic of the Safari Animal Sanctuary in action.

Your kindness gives them the second chance they deserve.

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