Mr Ovington told Radio York he felt “very good” after helping the creature.
“It belongs back in the wild if it can make it,” he said.
Alexandra Smith, manager at Whitby Wildlife Sanctuary, said the bird had a head trauma, but was recovering.
“He’s getting perkier and his injured eye looks better,” Ms Smith said.
“The owl’s appetite could be better so we are hand-feeding him but we are pleased with his progress.”
Ms Smith explained the owl’s luck was in when it was found.
“Tawny and barn owls are often clipped by cars when they swoop low between fields,” she said.
“If a member of the public finds a wildlife casualty in their home, our first advice is to make sure it’s kept somewhere quiet and warm.
“Warmth can really save a life,” she added.
She said it was hoped the owl could be released back into the wild in a few weeks.
“Once he’s better, we’ll assess his flying abilities and hopefully eventually be released in the same place, if it’s safe,” said Ms Smith.