Animal Care Assistant (1750)

We are looking for an Animal Care Assistant to join our team on a 12 month fixed term contract at Gonsal Farm Animal Centre, which is located in Dorrington, near Shrewsbury.

Gonsal Farm Animal Centre and Equine Rehabilitation Centre, situated in the stunning Shropshire countryside, has been a beacon of hope for animals since its establishment in 2002. Spanning 186 acres, this sanctuary serves as a haven for a variety of creatures in need. We specialise in the care and rehabilitation of horses as well as dogs, cats, birds and other small domestic animals.

Working hours:  35 hours per week (8:30am to 5:15pm) on a shift basis, including some weekends. There will be days off in the week to compensate.

To see more about life at the centre, you can visit our social media pages:

RSPCA Gonsal Farm Facebook
Are you ready to be part of our journey and make a difference?

Whilst working as an Animal Care Assistant, you'll start your day by cleaning and maintaining animal accommodation. It can be hard work, but very satisfying knowing the animals are comfortable when you are finished!

You'll also provide direct care for animals, which includes feeding, grooming, administering medication, as well as providing exercise and following behaviour modification plans where relevant. This hands-on care is critical for the physical and emotional health of the animals, many of whom may have come from challenging backgrounds. Our ultimate goal is to rehabilitate and rehome animals that have been victims of cruelty and neglect.

• This is a unique and important role to the centre. We are looking for someone who has experience working with members of the public, preferably in a customer service or administrative environment, as well as animal handling experience
• Resilience - many of the animals in our care have been victims of neglect and/or abuse and cruelty. 
• Experience working with animals either through paid or voluntary work (not including your own pets). 
• Willing to undertake practical work outdoors in all weather (practical work subject to reasonable adjustments if required).
• Excellent communication and team working skills - you'll be working with colleagues across the RSPCA, volunteers and members of the public.
• Able to multitask and work under pressure - working with animals can be busy and unpredictable! 
• Comfortable with using IT - you'll be keeping computerised records on the animals under your care. 
• Hold a full manual driving licence (subject to reasonable adjustments)-our staff are sometimes asked to drive RSPCA vehicles to undertake aspects of the role, for example Vet visits.

Desirable

Experience working in a kennel, animal rescue or welfare environment.

Knowledge of canine behaviour.

A qualification in animal management.