The purpose of this document is to standardise the initial treatment of possums and gliders requiring rescue or rehabilitation, in line with the Code of Practice for Injured, Sick and Orphaned Possums and Gliders (the ‘Possum and Glider Code’) (DPIE 2021).

Understanding that each case is different and should be assessed individually, this document aims to provide guidance for licensed wildlife rehabilitators in New South Wales on initial assessment and first aid treatment principles for rescued possums and gliders.

This document provides guidance on the initial care and management of possums and gliders following rescue, from capture to physical examination, initial stabilisation and treatment before presentation to a veterinarian. It provides advice on managing the more common rescue encounters in possums and gliders, including trauma, burns, orphaned joeys and disease syndromes including exudative ‘stress’ dermatitis.