Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation Course

Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation Course Report 

This training course concentrates on the theory and practice of wildlife rehabilitation and in order to provide the optimum learning opportunity the course is limited to an intimate group of twenty attendees. With this small group size, our instructors are able to tailor their teaching to the level of knowledge you already have. This course is therefore open to anyone – regardless of your wildlife experience.

This course – ‘Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation is a comprehensive introduction to this profession. You will learn about: the legal and ethical issues regarding wildlife rehabilitation in Ireland; safe rescue and handling techniques of wild animals; how to perform a physical examination; first aid and common ailments encountered; what to feed wildlife and how to house them; zoonotic diseases; and release considerations.
The highlight for most attendees- the practical sessions on Irish wildlife cadavers, include capture and handling; physical examinations; injections; tube feeding; bandaging; and what you’ll need in your ‘Wildlife Rescue Kit!

The Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation Course is an intensive and wonderfully engaging two day course that is geared towards wildlife rehabilitators, vets, students and wildlife enthusiasts. It is run by Wildlife Rehabilitation Ireland (WRI); a not for profit organisation which exists to promote awareness of wildlife and wildlife rehabilitation in Ireland.

Irish wildlife is constantly facing challenges and WRI aims to provide useful information to the general public in order to improve animal welfare in Ireland. Unfortunately there is a lack of national capacity with regards to managing and protecting wildlife in Ireland and this science-based course is a step in the right direction in terms of equipping participants with both theoretical and practical knowledge on wildlife rescue and care.

Caring for wildlife differs greatly to caring for domestic animals and during the course you will be taught how to deal with mammals and birds of all sizes and behaviour. It is run by experienced and enthusiastic professionals who teach in an informal manner, drawing from their extensive experience in the field. Their ardent passion for wildlife comes through strongly in their lectures which makes learning even more fulfilling and enjoyable.

Due to the small number of participants on the course, interaction with wildlife professionals and enthusiasts is part of the whole experience of the Course. Thus it not only provides you with invaluable knowledge but it also enables you to network with people within the wildlife sector which can lead to exciting opportunities in the future.

The Course is carefully designed to cater for people of varying abilities and experience; it is both introductory yet will expand your knowledge base and provide a stimulating experience. The course instructors are there to guide you through the learning process. Upon entering the lecture room, you are given an introduction to a collection of excellent books – everything you need to know about rehabilitating wildlife. These books can be used in the open book revision assessment that takes place at the end of the two days. The exam allows you to demonstrate what you have learned whilst simultaneously reinforcing your understanding through the process of revision. The course instructors are on hand to help you with any questions that you may have.

This accredited (Veterinary Council of Ireland) Course takes place in Ashbourne, Co. Meath. Only 20 people are enrolled for each course so make sure you book early. With its practical focus, this course lets you put theory into action – ideal for anyone who wants to get out there and make a real difference.

If you want to make a difference and help promote the standardisation of wildlife care in Ireland then it is an invaluable course to attend. If you are studying veterinary, veterinary nursing, wildlife biology, animal assistant or animal care courses, the course will broaden your understanding of Irish species, to include the broad range of our native wildlife species. By the end of the two days, you will feel better prepared and more confident that you are using evidence-based methods, focused on ethical practices that prioritise animal welfare at every stage.