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Passing on a love of animal care
For TAFE Queensland animal science teacher Alix Pollock, every day is different as she mentors and guides members of her classroom to provide care to animals.
“Every day I teach my students the specialised knowledge they need to work as vet nurses, in animal welfare and even being groomers, all providing care to animals,” said Alix.
“Students learn how to support animals through every situation – from basic care, handling and transportation of companion animals to specialised skills in veterinary nursing.”
As part of TAFE Queensland’s passionate team of industry professionals, Alix guides students one-on-one in a hands-on environment to succeed in their studies.
TAFE Queensland students work with real animals in industry-standard veterinary labs. They learn everything from how to care for animals to preparing and performing medical procedures, and even carrying out veterinary dental nursing procedures.
“I love that I’m able to pass my passion for animal care onto students so they can improve the welfare of animals and make the world a better place for them,” continued Alix.
Lachlan McLean, who is studying a Certificate II in Animal Studies (ACM20117), is benefitting from Alix’s guidance as he turns his love of animals into his career.
“With more and more animals under threat of extinction, I’m studying how to take care of them so I can one day work as a zookeeper and play my part to ensure their preservation,” said Lachlan.
“I love that I’m turning my empathy for animals into a career where I’ll be responsible for their welfare, conservation and rehabilitation.”
Starting with the basics, he is currently learning how to provide care for animals in kennels, catteries, animal shelters, sanctuaries, aviaries and veterinary clinics.
After he graduates, Lachlan plans to enrol in Certificate III in Captive Animals (ACM30317) where he will turn his love of animals into working as a keeper with the career goal of working in Queensland’s Australia Zoo.
“I want a career where I can use my empathy for animals for their benefit and educate the public about the issues surrounding animals and animal care.”
“As a zookeeper, I’ll be looking after wildlife and advocating for their preservation, and thanks to TAFE Queensland I’m learning how to provide basic care for all kinds of different animals.”
“That care includes providing medical assistance to vets as well as fresh providing animals with water each day, preparing species-specific food and providing enrichment so they don’t get bored.”
“One day I hope to educate zoo visitors about the beautiful animals we share this planet with,” concluded Lachlan.