Enrichment is experiences we offer our animals daily that allow them to express species-specific natural behaviors. For many species we have to provide a variety of enrichment daily to give the animals choice within their environment and throughout their day. Enrichment is made by the Animal Behavior & Wellbeing department then delivered to animal areas. The enrichment we make includes, but is not limited to, food bags/boxes/tubes, paper braids, paper mache, frozen food items, scented items, pinecone/wreath feeders, and more. This is a great opportunity for people who have a creative mind, are crafty, can paint, paper mache, or use power tools.
Requirements
- Ideal candidates are creative or crafty as many projects include paint and paper mache. Some power tool use might be available for specific projects.
- Must be able to use stairs.
- Must be open to both indoor and outdoor activities.
- Available to volunteer on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for at least 1 year.
- Available shifts Tuesdays – Saturdays.
- Usually scheduled in 1 morning or afternoon shift a week on a consistent schedule.
- Inform the appropriate member of the behavior staff if you are unable to make a scheduled shift or will be absent for an extended period of time.
Responsibilities
Enrichment Volunteers help the Animal Behavior & Wellbeing Department make safe enrichment, which simulate animals’ natural behaviors. Volunteers will perform a variety of functions, including, but not limited to:
- Making food and non-food enrichment for the animals
- Following directions and all safety protocols carefully to maximize health outcomes
- Prepping supplies (removing tape and/or staples, counting and measuring, etc.)
- Follow all cleaning protocols and USDA standards once enrichment making is complete
- Delivering enrichment supplies to select areas
- Help design new enrichment items for animals
- May observe animals with the enrichment made to evaluate effectiveness
Application Periods
We review applications and conduct interviews throughout the year. Orientations for new Enrichment volunteers are available January/February and June of each year.
