subject: A Primary Introduction To Animal-associated Careers: Working With Birds And Beasts [print this page] Have you always been an avid animal-lover and would really like to make that your life? Or maybe you are just looking for a new and exciting professional field? Here are some samples of the types of careers you can hold with animals and what you would be doing!
For those of you that love working hands on, think about the adventurous position of an animal trainer. Behind every trick a dolphin at the marine park performs, every horse that pulls off a dressage movement, and each dog that learns how to sniff out drugs, there is a person that teaches them. The work can sometimes be hard and frustrating but also a good time and with great results. You could find work for movie sets, training service dogs, or in shelters and stables, to name but a few.
If you are also interested in the law and protecting critters of all sorts, you might be intrigued by the job of a humane law enforcement or animal control officer. Part of the position is visiting places where animals are kept and inspecting them to be sure regulations are being followed. They also make rescues from emergencies, investigate cruelty cases, and catch strays. Be prepared for on-the-job training and seeing things that may weigh heavy on your mind.
Being a veterinarian is a wonderful goal and can be an extremely rewarding career. After you go through traditional four year studies, you'll need to apply to a vet school. Entry is incredibly competitive, but if you are accepted, you'll study another four years and then move on to internships. Once you are licensed, you can work in just about any setting you desire. Some basic responsibilities would be examinations, performing medical tests and surgeries, and administering needed treatments.
The government also employs the use of certain animals. You could be a K-9 handler within the police force or even within the military. Or take a try at being a mounted policeman, enforcing the law from the back of your horse. Of course, you do have to go through traditional law enforcement training and then specialized schooling to learn how to work with your new partner. Even the Navy uses trainers to work with dolphins!
Wildlife rehabilitation presents yet another unique opportunity for the animal lover with a "nurturing" streak. Rehabilitators work for public or private refuges or at their own operation. Essentially, they take in animals that are orphaned, sick, or injured. You'd be their caregiver throughout the healing process. Once it is seen that the creature is capable of being returned to the wild, it is released. Be prepared to complete coursework, get certified, and obtain wildlife handling permits.
Are you really good at taking pictures and would love to mix that skill with wildlife? Maybe you should consider working as an animal photographer. As long as you are well-versed in shooting and know how the business works, you can accomplish much. Photograph pets, horses, marine mammals, or rare creatures for private clients or even magazines!
This is only a small sampling of the many animal-related careers that are out there. If any of these appealed to you, don't hesitate to research them more, and then go for it!
