Big Cat Keeper Training
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Big Cat Rescue Training Plan Outline
1. The trainee will be involved on a daily basis in the maintenance and care of a group of rare cats and animals. Participation in the repair and construction of new enclosures as well as support of veterinary treatments as necessary.
Skills gained will include:
Husbandry protocols for various taxa including exemplary hygiene standards
Construction and repair of enclosures and support facilities
Enclosure Design / Furniture Design
Contribute to animal conditioning and behavioral enrichment
Veterinary procedures and protocols while assisting during veterinary treatments
Animal Record Keeping
Supervision of the trainee will be carried out by the Director and the Animal Care Supervisor. Evaluation will occur daily and assessment will be shared verbally so as to achieve a safe and productive result.
2. Objectives of Training include:
Daily cleaning and feeding of the animals
Maintenance and repair of existing animal facilities
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Design and Construction of new animal facilities
Animal conditioning and behavioral enrichment
Care of neonates including hand rearing
Proper procedures in food preparation and storage
Procedures for monitoring of cats for scientific and behavioral research
Training in genetics and basic species management principles
Our goal is to provide approved applicants an opportunity to gain associated skills in captive animal management. The trainee for a paying position is required to be involved in the biological sciences or have practical experience from a zoo, Wildlife Park, National Park or private facility. We only hire from our senior volunteer pool. By completing this program, the participant will benefit from a much broader knowledge base for use in their home country.
3. At present, there are no accredited textbooks for gaining further education in captive animal management. Nearly all of the training is practical, requiring hands on daily management of wildlife.
4. Trainee Orientation
5. Cultural Activities
Organized visits to other zoos and sanctuaries will be provided. In addition, there may be some travel provided within the scope of job responsibilities. To the extent desired by trainee, inclusion in local personal events will be offered.
Big Cat Rescue Keeper Training Synopsis
Big Cat Rescue is a non-profit rescue, rehab and conservation breeding center dedicated to the long-term conservation of rare & endangered species through preservation and education. As you begin training on each area, the Volunteer Coordinator will introduce you to the procedures and daily routine. After a period of time, determined by the animal care supervisor, the Coordinator, the Director and yourself, you will then perform the daily routine alone.
It is important that a clear distinction is made between your trainer and your supervisor. Your trainer will help familiarize you with the area, train you in the operation of systems and educate you about the behavior of the animals under your care. It is imperative that animal related issues; health nutrition transfers, escapes, and death follow the chain of command and be reported immediately and directly to the Animal Care Supervisor via the Animal Observation Chart, unless it is an emergency.
Different people assimilate information in different ways. It is important to communicate your learning needs to your trainer so adjustments in training styles can be made at the start of training. It is suggested that you take notes for reference and this will certainly help in your training. If you have found that you learn better by physically repeating tasks, communicate this to your trainer so that this aspect is included.
At the conclusion of training, your knowledge will be reviewed by Animal Care Supervisor, the Director and yourself. At this time you may be required to demonstrate your performance capabilities. For example: You may be asked to demonstrate the operation of the guillotine doors or lock out system. Once these training exercises are complete and training is verified, you will receive a certificate of completion of training. This sheet becomes part of your permanent file that is maintained as a record of your employment at Big Cat Rescue.
At any time during the training period, you are encouraged to bring forth difficulties you might be having in any aspect of animal or equipment management. Questions regarding Big Cat Rescue policies are also encouraged.
PLAN
The keeper in training shall spend a minimum of 4 weeks, working closely with animal care staff. At the conclusion of the training period, you should be familiar with the listed policies, equipment and procedures for the care of the listed collection. You will sign off this form, signifying concurrence with the training regime.
1. I am familiar with the policies and procedures found in the Big Cat Rescue Diet Book.
2. I have been trained in the utilization of the Diet Change Request Form.
3. I have been trained in the method of food preparation and storage.
4. I am familiar with the Big Cat Rescue policies on reporting equipment breakdown and food spoilage.
5. I have received training in the safe and proper method of cleanup and tool storage.
6. I have been trained in the Double Door Policy that is in effect on all carnivore Cat-A-Tats.
7. I have been trained in the safe and proper cleaning and feeding routines associated with the animals here.
8. I am familiar with the animals under my care.
9. I am familiar with the policies regarding the handling of Education Animals and can give an educational talk.
10. I have demonstrated to my supervisor the location of all emergency equipment.
11. I have demonstrated to my supervisor the safe and proper methods of administering medications and supplements.
12. I have completed all of the training classes including cage cleaning, events, first aid for humans, first aid for animals, animal behavior and animal enrichment.
The work schedule and an enclosure / habitat diagram will be reviewed. At the conclusion of the training period, you should be familiar with the following aspects of the area. Your signature at the bottom signifies compliance with the training regime.
________________________ _____________________
Keeper Intern Signature Trainer Signature
Date: _________________
For more details on our Volunteer Training Program see Volunteer.