Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals – Animal Care Intern

The Animal Care Intern will work closely with the SPCA's animal care team to provide daily care and support for the animals in our shelter. This internship offers hands-on experience in animal care, an opportunity to contribute to the development of best practices and training materials, and a chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare. The intern will assist in the daily operations of the shelter and support efforts to enhance the quality of care provided to the animals.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Daily Animal Care:

• Assist with feeding, grooming, and providing enrichment activities for animals in the shelter.
• Help with the cleaning and maintenance of animal enclosures, ensuring a safe and sanitary environment.
• Monitor the health and behaviour of animals, reporting any concerns to the animal care staff.

2. Development of Training Materials:

• Contribute to the preparation of a staff training manual, outlining best practices for animal care, handling, and enrichment.
• Research and gather information on the latest standards and techniques in animal care.
• Assist in drafting and organising training materials, including written guides, checklists, and instructional videos.

3. Support in Enhancing Animal Care:

• Collaborate with the animal care team to identify areas for improvement in the care and management of animals.
• Provide input on strategies to enhance the physical and mental well-being of shelter animals.
• Participate in discussions and brainstorming sessions on ways to strengthen the overall care and welfare of animals.

4. Administrative and Other Duties:

• Maintain accurate records of daily care activities, including feeding schedules, medical treatments, and behavioural observations.
• Assist with inventory management, ensuring that supplies and equipment for animal care are adequately stocked.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the animal care team.

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing studies in a related field, such as Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Biology, or a related discipline is advantageous but not a requirement.
• Passion for animal welfare and a strong commitment to the SPCA's mission.
• Experience working with animals, either through volunteering, previous work, or personal experience, is preferred.
• Physical ability to handle animals and perform tasks such as cleaning and lifting.

Commitment Period

• Paid internship
• August to December 2024 (timelines flexible)

Reporting to: Shelter Manager