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Andy and Gay Christie began helping injured wild animals many years ago. Their isolated home was an ideal base for the quiet rehabilitation of injured creatures. Today the project has completely taken over their home... and their lives.
The modern hospital building adjoining the house was opened in 1991 by Jimmy MacGregor, the Scottish musician, author and TV presenter. Gay is pictured in the middle shaking hands with Jimmy and Andy is to her left.
Jimmy has remained a firm supported of Hessilhead ever since and is a frequent compere at fund raising events.
The hospital allows veterinary treatment to be administered and the more critical cases to be housed and constantly monitored in warm, dry conditions. Outside, the house and hospital are surrounded by a collection of huts, pens and aviaries for birds and animals of every description. There are also enclosures for some of the larger or more long term residents, while in the loch formed in a nearby disused quarry, swans, geese and other waterfowl recuperate in semi-wild conditions.