For the second year in a row KTTC has received funding for two students through the Canada Summer Jobs program. The program allows us to have an impact which will last long after the summer ends, as these students will take the specialized skills they’ve learned here and share them with others they will encounter on their future career path.

Lindsay moving a snapping turtle to clean its tank.

Lindsay: “I have been at KTTC for over a year as a Turtle Care volunteer, and was extremely lucky to have the opportunity to work a contract this summer through Canada Summer Jobs! Turtle Care involves cleaning and maintaining the environments of the injured turtles in our care. This includes providing the best water quality, habitat, lighting and food for each patient. This summer has been busy, so there has been plenty to clean! But, I have also had the opportunity to train our new volunteers, help with egg collection, and work on my carpentry skills making room for all our new patients. Although I’m usually found up to my elbows in turtle goo, it’s worth it to know it helps ensure a speedy recovery and release back to their home.”

Olivia: “After graduating the Veterinary Technician program at Seneca College, I had no idea that I would find my niche working with turtles. I have always had a special interest in wildlife and when the Veterinary Technician position became available at the Kawartha Turtle Trauma Center, I jumped on the opportunity and applied. I was thrilled when I found out that I would be spending my summer looking after turtles.

We may see only a tiny fraction of the turtles in the world, but to that tiny fraction we are making a tremendous difference and that is enough to put a smile on my face every time I head into work.

I really had no idea before working at KTTC that I could feel the same level of compassion for an injured turtle as one could feel toward a human being. There is something extremely rewarding about being the one to deliver these voiceless creatures relief from pain and a leg up in the healing process. I have found myself infected with the “turtle bug” as it’s called at KTTC; I just can’t get enough of turtles! I find myself absorbing every bit of information I can about these unique and incredible animals. The KTTC has opened up a new door for me, one which I have flung wide open and am exploring every aspect of. I think the most rewarding part of working at the KTTC has been seeing the progress of turtles that are brought in. It is so fantastic to see them begin eating again after being in at the center, or watching the pieces of their shells slowly fuse together after weeks of bandage changes. Never have I been lucky enough to have a job as fulfilling as the one which I have now at the center.”