Orphan Rearing & Fostering

Two-day Course


WRI is delighted to present our 2 Day Orphan Rearing & Fostering Course!

WHEN: tbc

On this two day course we focus on the rearing and fostering of orphaned Irish birds and mammals. Over the two days you will learn about appropriate housing, feeding techniques, recommended food and equipment for the short term, the dos and don’ts of orphan rearing & fostering, as well as rehabilitation licences, and examples of forms that will make your record keeping run more smoothly.

We will also have practical sessions which will include identifying the young of different species, intake procedures, handling advice, clinical exam and crop feeding, content of a “foster kit”, and lots of interaction and networking opportunities.

Places on this course are extremely limited so book early to avoid disappointment

 

Programme

Day 1

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Registration & coffee

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Introduction to wildlife rehabilitation Ireland, Legislation, Principles of rehabilitation,
Fostering, Housing & Equipment, First aid, Intake & Identification,
Handling & restraint, Clinical examination
Fluid therapy, Nutrition & Feeding techniques

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Lunch

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Skills and Practical; Session 1 (on cadavers)
Intake and clinical examination
Identifying the young of different species

3:00 PM – 3:20 PM
Coffee Break

3:20 PM – 5:30 PM
Skills and Practical; Session 2 (on cadavers)
Fluid administration in birds and mammals

Day 2 

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Coffee

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Triage, Feeding techniques, Species-specific rearing for mammals
Species-specific rearing for birds, Baby bird housing,
Nutritional considerations, Hygiene, Enrichment, Release

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Lunch

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Skills and practicals; Session 3 (on cadavers)
Handling & feeding techniques
Gavage/tube feeding

3:00 PM – 3:20 PM
Coffee

3:20 PM – 5:30 PM
Skills and practicals; Session 4 
Enrichment suggestions
Creating of a “foster kit”


Fees

General public or any vet/vet nurse not claiming CVE credits

Veterinary Nurses 

Veterinary Surgeons (MVB) 

 

Income-Based Fee Structure:

Wage disparities exist in many professions, the earning potential for veterinary surgeons is generally higher than that of veterinary nurses – accordingly WRI charge lower-income individuals a reduced fee, while those with higher incomes pay a higher fee.

Despite our courses being taught by International experts in their field that WRI fly over from the UK, plus the significant additional value gained from the course having a 50% practical component, our courses are still vastly cheaper than many other VCI accredited events.

WRI’s belief is that education is fundamental to attaining our mission; to promote and advance wildlife rehabilitation, welfare and protection so we prioritise education over profit subject to covering costs. Any profits are ploughed straight back into WRI’s charitable activities.

 

WRI Grant Assistance

For a WRI grant application form or more information please email us at enquiries@wri.ie

Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation Course Report

The Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation Course is an intensive and wonderfully engaging two day course that is geared towards wildlife rehabilitators, vets, students and wildlife enthusiasts. It is run by Wildlife Rehabilitation Ireland (WRI); a not for profit organisation which exists to promote awareness of wildlife and wildlife rehabilitation in Ireland.

Irish wildlife is constantly facing challenges and WRI aims to provide useful information to the general public in order to improve animal welfare in Ireland. Unfortunately there is a lack of national capacity with regards to managing and protecting wildlife in Ireland and this science-based course is a step in the right direction in terms of equipping participants with both theoretical and practical knowledge on wildlife rescue and care.

Caring for wildlife differs greatly to caring for domestic animals and during the course you will be taught how to deal with mammals and birds of all sizes and behaviour. It is run by experienced and enthusiastic professionals who teach in an easy going, anecdotal way. Their ardent passion for wildlife comes through strongly in their lectures which makes learning even more fulfilling and enjoyable.

Due to the small number of participants on the course, interaction with wildlife professionals and enthusiasts is part of the whole experience of the Course. Thus it not only provides you with invaluable knowledge but it also enables you to network with people within the wildlife sector which can lead to exciting opportunities in the future.

The Course is carefully designed to cater for people of varying abilities and experience; it is both introductory yet keeps you on your toes. The course instructors are there to assist you with any trouble you may have with the course content. Upon entering the lecture room, you are given an introduction to a collection of excellent books – everything you need to know about rehabilitating wildlife. These books can be used in the open book examination that takes place at the end of the two days. The exam allows you to demonstrate what you have learned whilst simultaneously reinforcing your understanding through the process of revision. The course instructors are on hand to help you with any questions that you may have.

This accredited (Veterinary Council of Ireland) Course is scheduled multiple times throughout the year and takes place in Ashbourne, Co. Meath. Only 20 people are enrolled for each course so make sure you book early. The applied nature of this Course makes it completely unique and will enhance credibility.

If you want to make a difference and help promote the standardisation of wildlife care in Ireland then it is an invaluable course to attend. If you are studying veterinary, the course will broaden your understanding of all animals; not just companion and farm animals. By the end of the two days, you will feel well-equipped and confident in knowing that you are carrying out wildlife rehabilitation procedures in the safest, most humane way possible.


Venue

Colaiste na hInse school, Coast Road, Bettystown, Meath, A92NY30, Ireland

 


Photos