A zoo keeper assistant might be a good job for someone who has always been fascinated with the world of animal life. This job involves working with many species of animals and maintaining their health, diet, enclosures, and welfare. While a degree in animal science is ideal, many zoos will also hire employees with a high school diploma.
Many times, zoo keeper assistants are called upon to oversee volunteers and perform maintenance tasks such as cleaning, feeding and maintaining exhibits. They may also assist veterinarians in providing care for zoo animals. This is a full-time position that can be very rewarding and a great way for you to learn about animals. Zookeepers and keeper aids are trained to identify signs of illness, correct dangerous behavior and provide general care.
Zookeeper assistants have to be flexible and able work in a variety of environments. Their jobs require them to stand for long periods of time, move around, and lift up to 100 pounds. 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.
Zookeepers can become involved in breeding programs, and may take on a more hands-on role in scientific research. Many zoos offer paid internships for young people to gain experience in this field. Keepers may also be assigned to other departments, 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 educate the public about the animals. As well as providing veterinary care, keepers assistants can also be responsible for encouraging animals to do their best for visitors. They might be asked to clean the cages or make minor repairs.
Several zoos, including the Los Angeles Zoo and the Santa Fe Community College Teaching Zoo, have keeper training programs. This program will give you hands-on experience and teach you how to care for exotic animals. The program will teach you how to prepare food for animals as well as basic conservation techniques.
Meetings, tours, and guest service may all be provided by keeper assistants. They should also have excellent communication skills and be able present information either in written or oral form. Having a zoo assistant position will definitely give you the experience you need to make a good impression on future employers.
A zoo keeper assistant might also be asked to lead guided tours. They'll ensure that visitors follow the rules. They'll look for senior zookeepers and supervisors to help them spot misbehavior. Zookeeper assistants can be assigned to retrain or restrain animals and may also need to conduct veterinary examinations.
To be successful as a zoo keeper assistant, you'll need to be passionate about working with animals, have a basic understanding of their behavior and needs, and be able to communicate with others. Zoos often begin their careers on a part-time, seasonal minimum wage, but it's possible to increase your salary. You'll eventually be able choose from many jobs, including zoo curator or head keeper.
FAQ
What are the things you should consider when buying a pet?
First, think about what type of lifestyle you desire for yourself and your family. Do you have children? What number do you have? Are they still young? Are there any special dietary requirements?
Are you concerned about allergies? Are there any other things you should know about your pet's health?
Once you've answered these questions, think about whether you're looking for an active companion, a quiet lap dog, a house-trained cat, or perhaps a fish tank full of tropical fish.
If you are considering adopting a puppy from a shelter, rescue group or other organization, you should meet them and make sure that you feel comfortable with them.
It is also important to check if the animal was vaccinated against other diseases and rabies.
The owner should also be asked if the animal will be taken care of while you're away. This will make it so you don't have worry about leaving your pet home.
Keep in mind that pets are part and parcel of your family.
How to train a pet?
When training a dog, cat, or other animal, consistency is key. You must make sure you are consistent in how you treat them. They will start to distrust you if your behavior is unkind. They may also begin to believe that all people are like them.
If you are inconsistent in treating them, they won't know what to expect from you. This could cause them to become anxious around others.
Positive reinforcement is the best method to teach a cat or dog. If you reward your cat or dog for doing something well, they will desire to repeat the behavior.
Punishing them when they do something wrong will associate bad behaviors with punishment rather than rewards.
Treats such as toys or food should be used to reinforce good behavior. Praise is a great way to reinforce good behavior.
To help your pet learn, clickers are a great tool. Clicking can be described as a technique that allows you to click on a button to inform your pet that he did a good job.
This works because animals can understand that clicking "good job" means "good luck".
Show your pet the trick first. You should then ask your pet to perform the trick and reward him.
If he does it correctly you should give him praise. Be careful not to overdo it. Don't praise him more than once.
It is also important to establish limits. Don't let your pet jump up on other people. Don't let him bite strangers.
Always supervise your pet to make sure he doesn’t hurt himself.
Do I decide to get a dog or a cat?
It really depends on who you are. Some people like kittens while others prefer puppies.
But, in general, puppies tend to be more active and playful. Kittens are gentle and tend to sleep a lot.
Both types require a lot from their owners. They will need lots of attention as they grow up and require a lot more care.
You will need to take them to the vet for regular checkups. It is important that you take the time to take your pet to the vet.
Statistics
- 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)
- 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)
- It's among a relatively few companies that provide policies with a full (100%) coverage option, meaning you are not responsible for any co-payment of bills. (money.com)
- * Monthly costs are for a 1-year-old female mixed-breed dog and a male domestic shorthair cat less than a year old, respectively, in excellent health residing in Texas, with a $500 annual deductible, $5,000 annual benefit limit, and 90% reimbursement rate. (usnews.com)
- In fact, according to ASPCA, first-year expenses can sum up to nearly $2,000. (petplay.com)
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How To
How to choose the perfect name for your pet
When you are considering adopting a pet into your family, it is one the most crucial decisions you will make. You want to pick a name that reflects who they are and what kind of personality they have.
Consider how other people may refer to them. If you are going to use their name during conversation, for instance. And finally, you should think about how you yourself would like to be referred to. You might be more inclined to call yourself "dog", or "pet".
Here are some tips to help you get started:
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Name your dog a name that reflects its breed. Look up names that are associated with the breed if you are familiar with it (e.g. Labradoodle). Ask someone who has a deep understanding of dogs for suggestions on naming a dog after the breed.
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Consider the meaning behind the name. Some breeds are named after people and places while others are simply nicknames. A Labrador Retriever, for example, was given the name "Rover" as he was always running around.
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Think about how you'd like to be called. Do you prefer "dog" to "pet?" Would you prefer to refer to your dog as "Puppy," or "Buddy",?
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Be sure to include the name of the owner. While it is sensible to name your dog after your last name, you don't have to limit your options to include names of family members. Your dog might grow up to be a member your family.
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Keep in mind that many pets have multiple names. For example, a cat might go by several names depending on where she lives. You might call her "Kitty Cat" home, but she might be "Molly" on the road with her friends. This is especially true for cats that live outside. They often adopt their names to fit their environment.
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Be creative There are no rules stating that you have to stick to one naming convention. Make sure you choose something memorable and unique.
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Make sure that your chosen name doesn't already belong to another person or group. So you don't accidentally steal someone's identity.
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Don't forget that choosing a name is not an exact science. Sometimes, it takes time for you to choose the right name. Keep at it until you find the right match.