Rita Takacs

  Since secondary school I had been always around Great Apes, either as a volunteer, a student or a full time employee. Joining the WSC as a trainer and to work with the wolves and dogs was quite a big turn, but I am glad I took it.
Not for the first time I had to realise how much more is really behind the stereotyp or very narrow picture we usually have about a species, all is needed to take the time to get to know it better. I am amazed day by day as I grow to know the very rich personalities of the WSC wolves and dogs. Being around and just to watch them remains the best part of the job to me.
My duties include the training and the everyday care of the animals to ensure their well being. This we try to achieve through daily work in the form of training, cognitive tests for the different research projects, as well as regular walks and environmental enrichment. Designing and building the test enclosure and the connecting tunnel system is another part of my work and is a great challenge.