You might consider becoming a zookeeper assistant if you are fascinated by the world and animals. This job requires that you can work with many different species and keep their enclosures clean and healthy. Although a degree in Animal Science is highly recommended, many zoos hire staff with only a high school diploma.
The Zoo keeper assistants often have to supervise volunteers or perform maintenance duties like cleaning, feeding, and maintaining exhibits. They may also help veterinary specialists to provide medical care for the animals. The position is typically full time, and it's a great way to learn more about animals. Aside from providing general animal care, zookeepers or keeper assistants can also recognize signs of illness and correct dangerous behavior.
Zoo keeper assistants must be willing to work long hours and in all kinds of environments. Their jobs require them standing for long periods of hours, to move around, to lift up to 100lbs. Other responsibilities include documenting changes in animals and observing food consumption patterns. These workers need to be reliable, able to meet deadlines and be able to work under pressure.
The role of a zookeeper is not limited to breeding programs. They can also be involved in scientific research and more direct involvement in the management of animals. Many zoos offer paid internships for young people to gain experience in this field. Other departments may also have keepers, such as education. Depending on the nature of the zoo, keepers may specialize in one type of animal, or may have a general duty to monitor the health of the entire zoo.
Sometimes, assistant zookeepers will be called on to replace senior staff members. They are responsible for educating the public about the animals. They may assist with veterinary care or encourage animals to work for visitors. They may also be required to clean cages and perform minor repairs.
Many zoos, such as the Santa Fe Community College Teaching Zoo Zoo and Los Angeles Zoo, offer keeper training programs. In this program, you'll receive a hands-on training experience, and you'll learn all about caring for exotic animals. You will also learn how animals are fed and how conservation works.
As a keeper assistant, you may be asked to assist guests, provide service, or attend meetings. They must also be able communicate well and present information both in writing and oral format. Being a zoo assistant will provide you with the necessary experience to impress your future employers.
Guided tours might be led by a zookeeper assistant. They will make sure visitors observe the rules of zoo. If they find any inappropriate behavior, they will immediately notify the supervisor or senior zookeeper. Zookeeper assistants can be assigned to retrain or restrain animals and may also need to conduct veterinary examinations.
You will need to have passion for working with animals and a good understanding of their needs. While zoo keeper assistants typically start out on a seasonal minimum wage, it's possible for you to make more. You'll eventually be able choose from many jobs, including zoo curator or head keeper.
FAQ
What are some signs that my pet might be sick?
A variety of symptoms may indicate that your dog has a serious illness. Some symptoms are:
-
Vomiting
-
Diarrhea
-
Lethargy
-
Fever
-
Weight loss
-
Appetite decrease
-
Coughing
-
Difficulty in breathing
-
Bleeding from your nose
-
In stool or urine, blood can be found
These are just a handful of examples. Your vet will tell you what to be on the lookout for.
Should I spay/neuter/neuter my dog or not?
Yes! Spaying and neutering your dog is very important.
It not only reduces unwanted puppies around the world but also lowers the risk of some diseases.
Female dogs are more likely to get breast cancer than male dogs.
Testicular cancer is more common in males than it is in females.
Your pet's spaying and neutering will also stop her having babies.
What are your considerations when choosing a pet to own?
Consider what lifestyle you want for your family and yourself. Are you married? If so, how many? Are they currently over 50? Are there any special dietary preferences?
Do you have allergies? Is there anything else you need to know about your pet?
Now, you can think about whether you are looking to find an active companion, quiet lap dog or house-trained cat. Or perhaps a fish tank filled with tropical fish.
If you're considering adopting a puppy, make sure you visit a shelter or rescue group where you can meet the animals and see if you feel comfortable with them.
You should also check to see if the animal is vaccinated for rabies and other diseases.
Next, check with the owner to see if he/she will take care your animal while you're on vacation. This will make it so you don't have worry about leaving your pet home.
Pets are part of the family. You shouldn't adopt a pet unless it is a good fit for you!
Statistics
- Pet insurance helps pay for your pet's medical care, with many policies covering up to 90 percent of your vet bills. (money.com)
- Reimbursement rates vary by insurer, but common rates range from 60% to 100% of your veterinary bill. (usnews.com)
- A 5% affiliation discount may apply to individuals who belong to select military, law enforcement, and service animal training organizations that have a relationship with Nationwide. (usnews.com)
- Here's a sobering reality: when you add up vaccinations, health exams, heartworm medications, litter, collars and leashes, food, and grooming, you can expect a bill of at least $1,000 a year, according to SSPCA. (bustle.com)
- Monthly costs are for a one-year-old female mixed-breed dog and an under one-year-old male domestic shorthair cat, respectively, in excellent health residing in Texas, with a $500 annual deductible, $5,000 annual benefit limit, and 90% reimbursement rate. (usnews.com)
External Links
How To
How to train your pet dog
A pet dog, or companion animal, is one that offers companionship and emotional support to its owners. It may also provide protection from predators and other animals.
It is important that pet dogs are trained to obey their owners and do tasks like fetching things, guarding against intrusions, following commands and performing tricks.
The typical training period lasts from six months to two and a half years. The owner teaches the dog basic obedience skills such as how to sit, lay down, stay, come on command, roll over, and walk on command. The owner also trains the dog to obey simple verbal commands and learns how to handle the dog's natural instincts.
This should include teaching the dog basic behavior and how to handle strangers.