The course begins with a timed swimming test and a working-at-height assessment with the fire service. They then get a taste of some of the challenges they will face when they shadow qualified inspectors working real cases, experiencing everything from rescuing wildlife and saving malnourished animals to seeking justice for abused pets. One member of the group must confront traumatic memories of a childhood riding accident to save a field full of horses that are all close to death.

The trainees must lead investigations for the first time, including cases of pigeons that have had their wings taped up and meerkats who need to be found a bigger home.