Working in an animal shelter can be a stressful experience.
Working for an animal shelter can be a difficult and emotionally stressful--yet rewarding-- experience. Generally best suited for animal-lovers, shelters have a reputation of being a place where people dump off unwanted animals to be euthanized; however, that is not the only purpose of the shelter. It also treats sick animals, heavily markets for pet adoptions and engages in pet education through the community it serves. Numerous staff positions are available; however, it should be a good fit between the candidate's traits, including personality, and his potential job responsibilities.
Do You Have Any Previous Experience With Animals?
While much of a candidate's job training will happen once she's actually started working, she should still have some level of experience with animals, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This lessens the learning curve and allows the employee to become self-reliant faster, making her just that much more valuable an asset to the shelter team. Even if she does not have professional experience with animals, don't discount her; if her other skills are up to par and she has personal experience with pets, she still may be a valuable addition to the team.
Do You Mind Getting Dirty or Messy On The Job?
This may seem like an odd question, but the nature of shelter work does not lend itself to being clean and tidy by the end of each day. Job responsibilities may include feeding, washing, grooming or holding animals; employees may also find themselves cleaning out cages, playing with animals and wiping up messes, such as excrement or vomit. When talking with candidates, stress that if they have squeamish tendencies or weak stomachs, this might not be the best position for them.
Do You Have A Specific Job Type In Mind?
Positions an animal shelter range from groomers to veterinarians to pet sitters and kennel attendants. Ask your candidate what position he most sees himself excelling in, but also explain that many job responsibilities vary among shelter staff. Therefore, he may find himself covering for a groomer one day or sitting in for a kennel attendant the next. You want the candidate who doesn't mind the challenge of learning new responsibilities and doing his part to further the mission of the animal shelter.
Do You Work Well Under Stress?
Working in an animal shelter can be joyous, particularly when you get to spend time with certain animals or facilitate an adoption. However, more often than not, it is extremely stressful, particularly when dealing with sick or injured animals or witness the euthanization process. You need a compassionate candidate but one who can separate herself, just so she retains the ability to show up day after day and perform well, despite the realities of working in an animal shelter.
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