What is Wildlife Rehabilitation?

Wild Animal Rehabilitation is a very complex and specialized process involving the medical management and ultimate release of a healthy wild animal back into its natural habitat. It is a process of assessing the animals physiological and physical condition upon intake and addressing their conditions in the order of their severity. Depending on the specie, age and medical status, a specialized dietary program is created for that animal. Some babies are fed every 15 minutes to 2 hours throughout the day. Some animals are too compromised to eat.  

Feeding regular food to an emaciated or dehydrated animal will do more harm than good and possibly kill the animal, as that animal's system is not able to absorb the nutrients in a solid form. Once the animal is self sufficient, it’s HANDS OFF and he is introduced into an environment as closely resembling the one that he will have to survive in once he is released. During the weeks or months that he is in this environment, it is up to the rehabilitator to expose him to everything he would be learning from his parents in the wild - and limit his exposure to those things that can harm him, predominately humans.

Wildlife Care Attendant
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Reports To: Anna Reams, Director

Commitment: Commitment of at least 2 hrs a week

Work Location: Simi Valley and Burbank locations

Goal of Position: To assist in providing exceptional care to rescued local wildlife, with the intention of release back to the wild.

Responsibilities

• Prepare diets and feed animals
• Clean cages, equipment and supplies
• Assist with medications and special care
• Complete all necessary volunteer paperwork and documentation
• Releases

Qualifications

• Ability to dependably follow all staff direction
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, bend repeatedly, and frequently lift and carry up to 25 pounds
• Willingness to work where needed at the facility
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to interact with people of diverse cultures and beliefs
• Reliable and flexible to the changing needs of the animals and facility
• Experience and/or education in animal husbandry desired

Benefits

• Actively improve the lives of the rescued animals
• School credit, as applicable

Contact Information:

Wildlife Care of Ventura County

P.O. Box 941476

Simi Valley, CA 93065

(805) 581- 3911
www.wildlifecareofventura.org