Melissa

A dream of mine is to have a career that would allow me to work with animals on a daily basis, this led me to get a part time job working as a kennel attendant during the last few summers as well as volunteering in the Dog Treatment Centre in the DSPCA. 
Throughout my time there I gained vast experience working with all types of dogs. I practiced my skills handling dogs and how to manage different situations that the kennels would face on a daily basis including behavioural issues and medicine administration with the trained vets on site. I was also responsible for feeding, cleaning, and caring for many different dogs of all ages and temperaments. 
I really found my path while working in both the kennels and the DSPCA and towards the end of each summer I had grown in confidence and ability to work on my own accord, while making important decisions. 
I also have completed work experience in a variety of veterinary clinics, veterinary hospitals (including the pet emergency hospital in UCD), stables, and kennels. Unofficially, I have had dogs all my life and have done dog and cat sitting, and dog walking for neighbours, family, and friends since a young age. 
I have experience with both foster cats and dogs of all ages from bottle feeders to adults, including healthy and recovering animals. 

I have just got my degree in Animal Care where we covered various skills and knowledge, Due to the nature of my studies I am constantly gaining knowledge in animal handling, vet assisting skills, animal behaviour, dog grooming, and much more ! During this course I was also able to complete work experience in the veterinary department of the DSPCA. I am also fully certified by AniEd in Dog Handling and pet first aid. 
I juggle these responsibilities with my part time position as a pharmacy dispenser in Boots Pharmacy, Deansgrange.
I have been working here for the last 5 years, I really enjoy working here and it is very flexible to my studies.