Working with rescue animals can be both emotionally and physically challenging, but it is incredibly rewarding work as you will have a direct impact on improving the lives of those animals who are most in need. There are several different jobs that involve working with rescue animals, which we explore in this blog.
Animal Rescue Officer
One of the most important jobs working with animals is that of the animal rescue officer, as they are tasked with taking, collecting and rescuing sick, injured, stranded or otherwise at-risk animals and getting them to where they need to be to receive help and treatment.
Animal rescue officers also investigate reports of animal cruelty and interact with the public by educating and increasing awareness to prevent future mistreatment of animals.
The job of an animal rescue officer is often very physical, as rescuing animals may mean working at heights, in water, or in confined spaces as well as moving equipment and carrying animals to safety, some of which may be very heavy.
Rescue Centre/Animal Care Worker
Animal care or rescue centre workers are responsible for the day-to-day care of rescue animals. The duties are wide-ranging, including preparing food, grooming, exercising animals and getting them to socialise, as well as cleaning out enclosures. They will also be responsible for liaising with any visitors to the rescue centre or sanctuary.
There are no formal qualifications required to become a rescue centre worker as you will receive on-the-job training, including ongoing CPD (continuing professional development). A passion for animal care is essential, and experience working with animals, such as through volunteering, will help your application for the role greatly. There may also be opportunities to become an animal care worker through an apprenticeship.
Inspector
Inspectors play a vital role in the welfare of animals and can be one of the most rewarding jobs working with rescue animals. The role is challenging and will change from day to day, but the general responsibilities revolve around investigating neglect and cruelty complaints to ensure animals are not being mistreated, arranging their safe rescue if they are and educating owners on how to best care for animals.
There will be a range of locations where you will work as an inspector, such as residential homes, farms, animal establishments such as pet shops and kennels and events such as circuses and livestock shows. If neglect or cruelty is discovered, you will also work with the police or local authorities and prepare evidence for court cases.
To become an inspector you will need to have had experience working with animals as well as strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Vet
The primary career when it comes to animal caregiving is that of a veterinary surgeon, but vets don’t just treat domestic pets. Vets in dedicated rescue hospitals or clinics will work directly with rescue animals, as will some vets in normal clinics, and the job responsibilities are the same.
Vet surgeons will diagnose, provide treatment, administer medicine and perform surgery on animals to restore their health. The treatment of rescue animals can be more challenging, as they often will not have a detailed medical history to work from.
Becoming a vet requires a lot of dedication, beginning with a degree course in veterinary science or medicine, which takes 5-6 years to complete full-time. Most universities that offer these courses will require AAA at A-level, with Biology as one of those subjects.
Vet nurse
Just as with vet surgeons, there are some dedicated clinics for rescue animals, but vet nurses may work with rescue animals at regular clinics as well. Vet nurses are crucial to the treatment and care of animals, assisting the veterinary surgeon with a range of responsibilities, such as preparing animals for surgery, administering medication, monitoring anaesthetised animals, advising owners on proper animal care and more.
There are degree courses in veterinary nursing, but a diploma in veterinary nursing can be undertaken while in employment with a veterinary practice to become a qualified vet nurse.
We hope you have found this guide to the different jobs working with rescue animals useful. If you have any more questions, you are welcome to get in touch with our team of recruiters.