I came across Critter Care years ago as I was searching for internships in animal rehabilitation centers around the world, but unfortunately the time never seemed to be right for me to apply. So I was thrilled this past summer when I finally had the time to devote almost 3 months to working at Critter Care.

 

Since I want to work in wildlife rehabilitation in the future, I came into this internship eager to learn as much as I could about as many kinds of animals as I could, as well as what it takes to run a place like this. I was pleased to find that working at Critter Care can give you a vast range of knowledge and experience in all areas of animal care. I had the pleasure of raising 8 baby raccoons, 6 baby skunks together with Chloe, as well as helping out with countless other raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and rabbits. I also had the opportunity to learn about the deer, coyotes, otters, beaver and weasel as they came into the center. Not only do you get to work with the animals directly, but you also have the opportunity to learn how to admit animals, do exams, administer medications, vaccinations and injections, as well as the food and housing requirements for each species, among other things.

 

One of the best parts about working in rehabilitation is that every day seems to bring a new challenge. There is always a new animal coming in or a new problem to face. My first 4 baby raccoons were affectionately known by most people in the center as “the Bad Boys” because they were so difficult to feed, and my next 4 I dubbed “the Wild Ones” because they would hardly let anyone touch them for weeks. This made for many stressful days and sleepless nights, but it really was an honour to be entrusted with the care of these animals.

 

On top of the invaluable work experience, I also had the opportunity to meet some truly amazing people. It’s rare to find so many people that you have so much in common with in one place. It is the animals and also the people that make Critter Care what it is, and Gail, Richard, Judy, Edith, Mo, the supervisors, interns and the many dedicated volunteers made it a pleasure to live and work there. I met some friends that I really hope I will stay in contact with long into the future (you know who you are – don’t leave me dangling!)

 

If you’re thinking about doing an internship at Critter Care, let me just say that I don’t think you can prepare yourself for the amount of work that you will be faced with. It is no exaggeration to say that I often worked 16 or 17 hours days, especially when my babies were young and being fed in the middle of the night. And on top of taking care of the animals there is also the endless laundry, daily cleaning and other chores and outdoor work to do. I can’t say that it was an easy 3 months, but if you’re willing to put in the work you can be sure that you won’t regret it. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the babies grow into healthy adults and being released back into the wild where they belong. I have no regrets and can honestly say that I leave my time at Critter Care with many fond memories, new friendships, and an inconceivable amount of invaluable experience.

 

I hope this helps anyone who’s thinking of applying, good luck everyone!