Requirements
All the same requirements as listed in the general requirement section with the addition of the following:
- Understand that this position includes exposure to many
allergens (peanuts, eggs, hay, pollen, dander, fur) - Must have a quiet warm space in a separate area of the home (not deemed to be in a dwelling) just for the animals (e.g. garage, basement with separate entrance, etc.)
- Must be prepared to only feed, provide husbandry and not cuddle or talk to the animals (critical for prevention of imprinting/habituating animals)
- Will be required to successfully pass the MNR Rabies Vector Species (RVS) exam
Commitment
- Minimum of six-month commitment during spring and summer
- Feedings vary between species from every three hours to twice a day
Responsibilities
- Must follow a strict biosecurity protocol
- Mask and gloves need to be worn while feeding and cleaning
- Diet preparation and feeding
- Cleaning and disinfecting of equipment and enclosure
- Providing enrichment (includes foraging (e.g. for dandelions) and other materials, e.g. branches
- Observation and documentation of animals
- Squirrels – Open to all trained volunteers
- Cottontails and Opossums (must have tubing experience (RVT)
- Raccoons and skunks (must understand biosecurity risks)