Howletts Wild Animal Park

In December last year I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity of working with the African elephants for the day at Howletts Wild Animal Park. I was able to get up close to the elephants, whilst being wary of their enormity and strength, something I had wanted to do since learning about the elephant orphanage at Vetsim. 

I threw myself into helping the keepers and really discovered the hard work involved in their daily routine, showing the dedication required for such a demanding vocation. Having spent a lot of the time shovelling the tonne of poo created by the elephant herd every single day, I was rewarded by being able to hand feed some of the females before releasing them into their newly cleaned enclosure. One of the females showed off her strength as I was handing her some food by slamming the huge metal door of her stable shut with minimal effort; which had previously taken one of the keepers all of their strength to slide open. 

Once the elephants were safely out in the enclosure, a highly controlled operation, the next task was...more cleaning, I was beginning to learn that it takes a lot of physical strength to work with elephants. Throughout the day I was constantly wary of the safety aspects of working with such dangerous creatures, there were always bars between us and you still had to keep your distance and watch out for any trunks up to mischief.

At the end of the day I was on chopping duty, carrots, cauliflower, potatoes, hundreds and hundreds of them, and yet just a snack for the elephants. My final task has to be the highlight of my day; I was able to bottle feed one of the orphaned baby elephants with warm milk that I prepared. 

Overall it was a really incredible experience and something that not many people ever have the chance to do. I really respect the keepers for their hard work and passion for their animals and it also opened my eyes to the possibility of exotic veterinary medicine.  

I have also been given a full time job working as a Veterinary Nurse for Foreman and Hanna Vets, which I feel so fortunate to have been offered. I didn't get accepted onto the Veterinary course this year but will reapply more determined than ever for 2014 entry. I have been working within the vets for over four weeks now and have already learnt so much, which I will write about when I have the chance! I will also be receiving my final A level grades on Thursday!

Amy