Aspiring Veterinary student

My name is Jeanné van Wyk .I am in the process of exploring careers in healthcare and I am very interested in the field of Veterinary Science. I have a passion and respect for animals and the different Anatomy of different types of animals. I want to persue a career in protecting endangered species through providing excellent healthcare as a wildlife vet.

However because of my love for animals and nature I believe all animals deserve the best care and I would want to assist and teach owners to take good care of their animals no matter their economic status.

Since the beginning I’ve lived with the quote “Nature and wisdom always says the same” hanging in my childhood garden. When 18 hit I got to volunteering and get into a corporate job. Still believe a corporate job is not where the heart lies and my experience volunteering will be well explained below and why I am passionate about animals and nature.

Volunteer

Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary | Bethlehem,Free State

1 Feb 22 - 30 Apr 22

Nature of organization : Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary is a project by the global animal welfare organization FOUR PAWS and is home to over 100 Big Cats rescued from around the world. Here they are protected for the rest of their lives in a species-appropriate environment.

Lionsrock has already rescued more than 150 big cats from all over the world. These animals are provided with a lifelong home and habitat appropriate to their species. All enclosures are several hectares in size. The main parts consist of open grassland with bushes and trees. In all the enclosures, shelters have been constructed which can be used by the animals as resting places. Natural structures that provide the animals with the possibility to hide and shelter from the elements. The enclosures are circular in shape and follow the natural shape of the land. This ensures that the animals are never in a corner and provides a feeling that there is no border.

Volunteering Period : 01 February 2022-30 April 2022

Key responsibilities as volunteer :

● Closely monitor specific animals to give them the best possible care and a chance to thrive in their new home.

● observe the animals’ behavior and progress.

● assist with managing trap cameras for monitoring the big cats

● prepare and implement enrichment measures

● clean and maintain the animals’ enclosures

Additional activities:

Four Paws Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary - worked full time for 3 months at the sanctuary shadowing onsite veterinarian working on multiple lions and tigers during procedures such as performing x-rays for animals with Spondylosis , arthritis and other physical conditions , observed and assisted administration of

oral , intranasal and intrarectal thermometer administration of medication ,IV’s , vitamin injections.

Also performed behavioral analysis and research with PhD Behaviourist tasks such as monitoring negative or aggressive behavior , socialization processes ,monitoring for psychological health and stereotypes in tigers and lions. Additionally designed and implemented behavioral enrichments, monitoring reactivity and interactions, managing a clean and appropriate environment for animal welfare. Assisted on-site veterinarian with necropsy of a male lion and observered the maintaining of Equestrian welfare.

Business or sector: International NGOPersonal message

I am 19 years old currently employed and caring for my mom and my sister.My salary covers food/petrol and necessities excluding rent. My mother lost her business in 2022 and it has been rough.My mon has worked hard all her adult but is now struggling to get a work in this economy. I have a passion for animal welfare and have applied for BVsc veterinary science and BSC biological science. Any contributions will be saved for tuition fees and some will be used to support my family in times of need.My mother is actively looking for a job and I know and hope she will find one.She’s an amazing hard worker and successful. But in this time it is really rough and a little help will take off some stress. Thank you in advance.Much appreciated.God bless. Most thankful for every sent.