How to Answer: Quite often we will have animals come to us who have been very poorly treated. How do you control your emotions in these situations?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Animal Shelter Worker job interview.
10. Quite often we will have animals come to us who have been very poorly treated. How do you control your emotions in these situations?
How to Answer
When an abused animal is dropped off at the shelter, it can be difficult to fight back the tears. One of the lessons you will learn is that you may never understand why someone would abuse a helpless animal. You will have to develop a certain level of tolerance and understanding about some of these injustices. Explain to the interviewer how you handle your emotions during those tough moments.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 15th, 2021
Entry Level
"That is a tough one to answer because I have such a soft heart for animals. The way I see it is that once they reach our shelter, it's like a do-over for them. I would focus less on the sadness and more on what I can do to help them progress."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have spent time with abused and neglected animals in the past. Even though it is incredibly disheartening, I have learned how to keep myself together. I always remind myself that there is so much outside of my control. I do my best to support the animals once they are in my care."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 15th, 2021
Experienced
"I have seen this situation time and time again. It doesn't get easier, either. What I choose to do, to move past the emotions, is focus on how happy the animal is going to be in the short term. I dedicate all of my love to them, and they feel it. It's a wonderful bond when you can help a formerly abused animal."
Written by Rachelle Enns