If you love spending time with our furry, feathery, or even scaly and gilled friends, then the chances are that you love animals! And there’s no better way to let this love shine through than finding a job working with animals. Of course, the first job working with animals that pops into your head is most likely a veterinarian.
Vets work with animals every single day and are well versed in their care. But many people who love working with animals don’t have the time for schooling. Or maybe you love animals but are looking for something that’s not full-time. Maybe you are looking for a profession but being a veterinarian simply doesn’t appeal to you. These are just some of the reasons that animal lovers often turn to other jobs where they can still express their love, without becoming a vet. If this sounds like you but you have no idea where to get started, here are some great ideas!
Zoologists or Aquatic Care Personnel
Finding work in a zoo or an aquarium can be a great job working with animals! At these locations you’ll experience working with many different kinds of animals and learning about them. One of the greatest things about working in a zoo or an aquarium is that you will be able to observe the animals in their natural habitats. You will also be able to learn about the protection and conservation of these animals, as well as many different endangered species. Zoos and aquariums are largely responsible for reducing the number of endangered species that exist in the world. And what better feeling is there than being a part of that?
Shelters, Kennels, and Rescue Workers
Being involved in the rescue and proper care of animals is so rewarding! And even if you don’t have time to commit to a full work week, many of these jobs can be turned into volunteer opportunities! Working at a shelter or kennel will allow you to work with many different animals. It will also give you the opportunity to see what is involved in their daily care, and to be a part of that yourself! Working in a kennel or shelter can consist of taking different animals out for daily walks, free run time, caring for their living quarters, and making sure that they are well groomed and hygienic. Working in these types of settings can also give you the chance to see a lot of happy endings when lost or abandoned animals are adopted by loving families.
Rescue workers generally hit the pavement looking for animals that have been abandoned animals or animals that have run away from home. If you’re interested in this type of work, it’s important to know that you’ll need to be able to handle seeing animals in some very bad situations. Because of this, rescue work is not for those who feel as though they may become depressed or deeply saddened every day that they have to go out into the field.
Working in a Pet Store or Pet Grooming Salon
Becoming a staff member at a pet store or a grooming salon can be a lot of fun! Pet stores make sure that they are always providing the best care for the animals that are waiting to be taken to a good home. Because of this, you may be doing a lot of the same work as you would in a kennel such as grooming and caring for their living space. Pet grooming is also tons of fun! Here you’ll cut dogs’ hair, trim nails, and of course, top them off with a pretty bow just before their owners come to pick them up! Working in a pet grooming salon is a great way to have lots of laughs and really enjoy the regular visitors of the salon!
Animal Trainer
Being an animal trainer is a great way to learn about the behavioral aspects of animals. You can be a private trainer, such as doggy daycare, or you can work with larger and more dangerous animals. This latter type of job can give an added sense of excitement. This is because often trainers work with animals such as tigers, who can harm them at the drop of a hat. Of course, this is extremely rare. But it certainly makes sure that on no day will you be able to foretell what you should expect!
