Q&A for How to Become a Wildlife Rehabilitator

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Can I still do this type of job at my young age?

Community Answer

Many shelters require an orientation or some training, but will let 13 year-olds and older volunteer.

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What can a 15 year old do to jumpstart his/her career in this field?

Community Answer

Volunteer at animal shelters or a vet office, or see if a local state park or wildlife center/refuge uses volunteers.

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Question

What courses do I have to do in college to do this job, and how many years of college do I need to do this?

Community Answer

There isn't a degree for wildlife rehabilitation, nor is a degree even required at all. Any degree that has to do with animals would just help your case when applying.

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Question

What is the average wage for a wildlife rehabilitator working with a wildlife rehabilitation organization?

Community Answer

It depends. A wildlife rehabilitation organization relies on donations because it is a non-profit business, and the amount of donations can vary.

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Question

Do some rehabilitators keep the animals in their own homes?

Community Answer

Some do, but not usually. It takes multiple certifications and a rather expensive license to be able to house wildlife legally. As the objective is to release sick or injured animals back into the wild, exposure to humans and their environments is limited.

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Question

Is it necessary to go to a veterinary medicine college in order to get a career in this field?

Community Answer

It is not necessary to take veterinary medicine if you get hands on training at your place of work. But you would be more likely to be accepted for the job before another person who has not taken veterinary medicine.

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Question

What do I do if an animal is unable to be released back into the wild?

Community Answer

An animal unable to be released will be kept for educational services or as a pet once it is fully tamed.

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Question

Do I need to study at a vet school?

Community Answer

It is not necessary, but the information provided would definitely help in the field.

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Question

Is there a height limit when working in wildlife rehabilitation?

Community Answer

No, there is no height limit.

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Question

How do I start volunteering as a wildlife rehabilitator?

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Community Answer

Search for local wildlife rehabilitation facilities near your city. You may need to travel a bit to find some. You can also volunteer at a sanctuary or zoo if a rehabilitation facility is not near by. Contact the facility for details on volunteer requirements.

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Question

What would it cost me to major in biology and major in business to own a sanctuary and be a wildlife rehabilitator?

Community Answer

It depends on where you go. Every college is different. Generally speaking, you don't pay more for a double major, you just have to work extra hard. Scholarships and student loans are always an option if you can't afford college.

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Question

Is there a certain place I need to live to become a wildlife rehabilitator?

Community Answer

Not necessarily. Even urban areas have wildlife rehabilitation centers; however, especially remote and sparsely-populated areas may require a more distant commute to the nearest center.

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Question

How many animals are put down in a year on average?

Community Answer

According to the Humane Society of Texas, 2.7 million animals are euthanized annually (1.2 million dogs and 1.4 million cats).

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Question

What courses should I take to become a wildlife rehabilitator?

Community Answer

College programs would be ecology and/or biology. If you are in high-school, taking biology and any environmental programs available will definitely help.

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