Wellington - Janelle Ward, vet
Janelle Ward is a resident specialising in avian, zoo animal and
wildlife health care.
Get to know more of the vets featured in Wild
Vets by clicking here.
What animals do you work with?
Mainly birds, but also reptiles, the occasional amphibian
and zoo animals at the Wellington Zoo.
Why did you become a vet?
It all begain with rescuing birds from my cats as a child
... I always wanted to work with animals for a career, but
also happened to be good at science so was a great way to combine
the two interests.
I am also passionate about conservation and protection of
endangered species, wildlife health and environmental
health.
Any memorable stories from the vet clinic?
Lots of stories but one of the most memorable was
releasing the albatross (as filmed on Wild Vets) which literally
did give me goosebumps watching her fly off.
Treating a Kakapo was also a highlight as they are very cool (and
very endangered!) birds. Training with the lions at Wellington Zoo
- big cats are awesome.
Taking part in a North Island robin translocation with Department
of Conservation in 2009 was a highlight for sure.
What animal would you like to have in your backyard?
Lots of native birds and reptiles.
What animal would you most like to see in the
wild?
Kokako.
Where in the world have you worked and what animals did you
treat there?
England, Australia and New Zealand. Mainly small animals
(cats, dogs) prior to starting this residency, though have also
worked with native and exotic species in these countries, including
birds, turtles, hedgehogs, reptiles, etc.
Which animal do you relate to the most?
Not sure that I relate to any particular animal (I'm very
human!) but I do envy birds as they can fly - free travel!
What do you love most about your job?
Working with amazing animals and wildlife professionals
(vets and non-vets) who are a very passionate bunch of
people!
What would you change about your job?
Having to euthanise animals, even when I know it's for
the best.
If you could make one change to help save endangered
animals what would it be?
There is no simple answer for this. Probably people's
attitude that the economy/money must come first.
Advice for future vets?
If you are keen on working with wildlife stick at it
don't give up and realise that you might need to do volunteer work
and make sacrifices (of the personal kind!) ... but that it's worth
it.
