Being able to be part of Barn Sanctuary’s incredible Animal Care Internship Program was an opportunity I’ll never forget. As an intern, I worked closely with the Animal Caregivers, Shelter Team, and volunteers, while being hands on with the animal residents who call Barn Sanctuary home.
During my time at Barn Sanctuary, I gained so much experience, knowledge, and confidence. I had never worked with farmed or large animals before, yet by the end of my time there, I had trimmed hooves, assisted with administering subcutaneous fluids on a chicken, and even did a blood draw on Buttercup under the supervision of a veterinarian. The internship allows for so many hands-on opportunities that are very hard to find.
While I loved every single resident at Barn Sanctuary, I especially bonded with Blanche the turkey. One of my favorite memories was after I just started my internship, and Blanche came right on over and sat in my lap after giving her a foot treatment. In that moment, I remember being so amazed by how loving and affectionate she was. It truly opened my eyes to how different each individual animal is and how much they have to offer.
Jacquelyn and Blanche
This internship was also unique because you get to see so many treatments that you wouldn’t typically see outside of the sanctuary environment. For example, in most “farm” settings, you would not be providing nebulizer treatments on multiple turkeys and chickens, helping a duck with physical therapy, or administering light therapy on farmed animals.
Working with the animals was amazing, but the family at Barn made it memorable as well. I got to work alongside some of the kindest and most genuine people I’ve met. Barn Sanctuary is truly something special and will always have a place in my heart.
For anyone thinking about applying to Barn Sanctuary’s Internship Program, I say do it. You won’t regret it.
-Written by former Animal Care Intern Jacquelyn Ly