TAFE NSW is training skilled workers to meet the increased demand in the animal services sector after an explosion in pet ownership during COVID-19.

Australia now has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world according to Animal Medicines Australia, with approximately 61 per cent of households owning domestic pets.

Orange resident Lily Laws is part of a growing workforce in animal shelters, rehoming facilities, and pet motels catering for the unprecedented boom in the industry.

The 20-year-old brain cancer survivor has been working with the RSPCA as an animal attendant since March while completing a Certificate II in Animal Studies at TAFE NSW. She is now studying a Certificate III to further her goal of becoming an RSPCA inspector.

“Some people want to grow up and be a policeman or a firefighter – I always wanted to work for the RSPCA,” Lily said.

“TAFE NSW has set me on the right path and will give me the qualifications and skills I need to apply for the job I want.”

TAFE NSW Animal Studies teacher Jenna McAtamney said there is a unique opportunity right now for animal lovers to take advantage of the significant increase in job opportunities in the industry.

“There is a growing need for workers in the animal services sector right across regional NSW in everything from pet grooming and veterinary clinic assistants to workers in kennels, catteries, and council pounds,” Mrs McAtamney said.

“Lily is a great example of what you can do if you set your mind to it. TAFE NSW is here to help people get that practical training they need to make their goals achievable and find pathways into rewarding, successful careers.”

TAFE NSW offers a range of courses in the animal services sector including a free Statement of Attainment in Animal Behaviour and Learning, which is being offered for the first time in Orange in 2022. It commences on 27 January.

For more information on the hundreds of courses on offer at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Terra Sword, Communications Specialist. Phone: 6623 0325. Email: terra.sword@tafensw.edu.au.