Think Wild seeks $13,000 for critical laundry system overhaul in Bend

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Think Wild, a wildlife hospital based in Bend is seeking $13,000 in community donations to overhaul its laundry system with commercial-grade equipment. The upgrade is intended to support the facility as it cares for nearly 1,000 injured and orphaned native animals each year.

The hospital currently relies on residential-style washing machines and dryers that were not designed for the volume of laundry generated by patient care. Since opening in 2020, Think Wild has treated more than 3,300 wildlife patients representing more than 200 species, creating a continuous need for clean towels, blankets and animal bedding to maintain sanitation standards.

Wildlife rehabilitation requires significant sanitation efforts. Hospital staff and volunteers must manually scrape food, feces and debris off towels, blankets and sheets before washing them. Items must also be sorted and washed separately due to biosecurity and disease control concerns, including risks associated with avian influenza.

The total $13,000 project cost includes $9,400 for two commercial stackable washer and dryer units. Additional expenses consist of $1,800 for electrical upgrades—including a new 240-volt receptacle—$1,270 for laundry room improvements, installation and equipment transportation and $530 for plumbing and electrical supplies such as vents and water connections.

Think Wild is a 501(c)three nonprofit organization based in Bend, Ore. In addition to veterinary care, the organization offers youth and community education, habitat installations and native plantings. Think Wild also operates a wildlife hotline at 541-241-8680, which is monitored seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.