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Working at animal shelter??

I'm 15 years old and I'm able to work at an animal shelter. I have talked to my parents about it and they are telling me thats its great. I've been on a farm my whole life, and I'm great with animals. All my animals are nice and calm. I normaly bond with other animals great, since theses animals don't know me Im wondering if you are able to give me any hits....The shelter I would be working at is a dog/cat shelter. i've been thier before and its a nice place, but im just wondering if their are any hints that you would be able to give me. thanks


Asked by Guest 485276 on Jun 26th 2009 in Local Spots & Services
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Katie

Wow, what a great way to spend the summer! Congratulations on your choice of a place to work!
It sounds like you have a good rapport with animals and are able to bond with them, but you're right to look for advice in dealing with animals you don't know. Listen carefully to all your new co-workers and boss; they will have good tips for you.
Two books that I really like about dog behavior and "language" are The Other End of the Leash by Patricia McConnell, Ph.D., and Calming Signals: On Talking Terms with Dogs by Turid Rugaas. Both of these authors live on farms with working dogs, and they also are trained behaviorists who work with cases of dog aggression. By reading these books and looking at the photos, you will learn a lot about the body language and positioning that dogs use to communicate. You probably already know some of these without trying, since you are used to working with your animals, but you will also get good tips on how to respond to an aggressive signal. Good luck!


Katie answered on 6/26/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Kayak

Katie's answer was right on. I would like to only add, trust your own instincts. Sounds like you have good ones. Enjoy a nice doggie summer.


Kayak answered on 6/26/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Burkett's Cookies 'n' Creme

I've volunteered at an animal shelter for morning work before. Best tip I can give you:
Whatever you do, keep your mind on your work and give it your best efforts.
If you aren't sure of what to do, ask and listen well so that you remember and won't have to ask again.




Bless you for doing this.
God bless,
Tiffany


Burkett's Cookies 'n' Creme answered on 6/26/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Rosie (waiting at The Bridge)

Don't get burned out & don't be afraid to cry!
God bless you!


Rosie (waiting at The Bridge) answered on 6/26/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


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