subject: Top Jobs That Involve Working With Animals [print this page] If you have an interest in flying mammals, slithery lizards, or even lions and elephants it is worth considering a job that involves working with animals. There is a wide range of professional opportunities in the field, depending on your interests and skills. Some require the successful completion of specialised courses, while others simply demand passion and commitment. This article provides an overview of just a few animal related career options.
Pet Store Assistant
You won't need to have completed a university education to gain employment in this customer-facing role. However, you should possess a friendly disposition, good customer service skills and a natural affinity with animals. Apart from selling pets and pet accessories you may also be required to clean out the cages and ensure that the animals are well fed.
Animal Attendant
In your local area there will be a range of voluntary and paid positions available under the title of animal attendant at your local dog kennels or aquarium, for example. If accepted you will be working with animals of various types and temperaments. The average day might involve taking a group of dogs for a walk, feeding and grooming them and repairing the cages or kennels.
Pet Sitter
Large numbers of people head away on holidays to international destinations each year. While some opt to leave their pets in kennels and catteries, others prefer to employ the services of professional pet sitters. In this role you may have to spend extended periods at a client's house, ensuring that their animals are given attention when needed. Although you won't need any formal qualifications, it is necessary to have liability insurance and bonding when working with animals in this capacity.
Zookeeper
You may well have been inspired to pursue a career in zookeeping by television programmes such as The Zoo. However, it is worth bearing in mind that the heart-warming moments are sometimes coupled with stress and sadness. The professionals may be helping out with the birth of a baby giraffe one day, and aiding in the recuperation of a sick lion cub the next. Jobs that entail working with animals in local zoos can be quite difficult to secure.
Marine Biologist
Anybody with an interest in aquatic life should ultimately undertake a university course in marine biology. There is a wide variety to choose from and they can give you the grounding for a career in marine conservation or education. Individuals who are keen to gain such employment are often motivated by a genuine passion, rather than the prospect of earning large amounts of money.
Veterinarian
This is one of the most popular jobs that entail working with animals. However, the road to becoming a registered vet is a long and potentially costly one. You will be required to excel in subjects such as biology and physics before completing four years at veterinary college or university. Only then you will have the necessary skills to begin work in your chosen specialist area.
