It is a peril of getting older, yes. Luckily, he hasn't had to worry about such things quite yet.

"It doesn't always work that way in their world. The wounded are harder to care for, and easily picked off by their natural predators," he tells her, lowering his hand so that she might get a better look as he gently looks the little squirrel over.

Then to the little bundle of fur in his hand. "But I'm not going to let that happen. You'll be safe with me."