Future Handlers: High Schoolers Unleash Potential in Canine Careers
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Students from Inverell and Macintyre High Schools recently traded classrooms for the Delungra Showground, participating in a hands-on Working Dogs Program. The initiative provided valuable insights into canine welfare, training, and the broader agricultural and primary industries, opening doors to potential career pathways.
Key Takeaways
- Students gained practical experience in dog training, handling, and welfare.
- The program connected students with industry professionals, including veterinarians and trainers.
- Opportunities for work experience, traineeships, and further study were highlighted.
A Day in the Life of a Working Dog Handler
The Working Dogs Program, a collaborative effort by the Regional Industry Education Partnerships, offered 22 students an immersive experience. They learned about various aspects of canine care, including proper feeding, watering, health management, and the specific techniques involved in training dogs to work with sheep. Breeds like kelpies, border collies, and German shepherds were introduced, allowing students to observe and understand their behaviour and needs.
Industry Insights and Future Pathways
Professionals from diverse fields within the animal industry, such as veterinarians, stock truck drivers, working dog trainers, and breeders, engaged with the students. These interactions provided a realistic glimpse into the daily demands and rewards of working with dogs. The program also aimed to guide students interested in pursuing agricultural studies, TAFE vocational courses, or school-based and full-time traineeships.
Student Perspectives
Year 11 student Mia Kitzelmann from Macintyre High emphasized the importance of understanding animal behaviour, noting, "There is a lot more to working a dog and the sheep industry." Dempsey Kahler, a Year 9 student from Inverell High, shared a valuable lesson learned: "I learnt that if you stress over the dog doing the wrong thing, then the dog will react accordingly, causing everyone to stress."
Educator Endorsement
Melissa Willcocks, Inverell High's primary industries teacher, praised the program as a "great initiative" for providing essential practical experience that might otherwise be inaccessible to students. The program's conception during COVID-19 lockdowns by careers adviser Deb Snaith was driven by a desire to educate new and existing dog owners on training and care basics, reflecting a surge in pet ownership during that period. A representative from Inverell Shire Council also contributed by discussing responsible pet ownership.
Sources
- Inverell students learn dog training at Delungra showground. | The Northern Daily Leader, The Northern Daily Leader.