Created: 2/5/2009 4:30:40 PM 
Asheboro, NC -- Last week, we showed you how valuable the North Carolina zoo volunteers are to the zoo's day-to-day happenings.
This week, Eric Chilton takes us behind-the-scenes to see volunteers you have probably never seen. People bring sick or injured animals to the zoo all the time. Thanks to some special volunteers, animals get a second chance at life.
Volunteers are an essential part of the N.C. Zoo. They are special in the eyes of the staff, but in the rehab section they are special in the eyes of the animals.
Halley Buckanoff heads up the Wildlife Center where volunteers help injured animals make it back into the wild. This Bard Owl is a prime example. He had a broken leg and needed a cast.
The volunteers spend their time cleaning the cages and learning about all types of wildlife. Some of these animals will be a part of an outreach program to educate the public. Its a one-of-a-kind volunteer experience that takes a lot of work. "After completing a certain amount of requirements and going through an animal behavioral training class with the zoo consulting animal behaviorists they might have a chance to train some of these animals."
After a quick exam, a dove the rehabilitated was ready to go with a clean bill of health. The volunteers get more than just a pat on the back, they got an experience that goes much farther than a notch on the resume belt. Its something that stays with you.
To watch more on the rehab facility, click play in the video window.
WFMY News 2
