We think that most of us when we were children were dreaming of having a job that's in relation to animals. That's because most kids adore animals and think that any job that's related to them involves playing and cuddling only. Are you considering to get a job in the pet industry?
Table of Contents
But then, as we grow up, we start to realize that working with these wonderful creatures isn’t always easy, especially when they are hurt or ill. However, if you are that passionate about them, then something like this should never prevent you from choosing a career in the pet industry.
On this post, let's take a look at points you should consider if you're searching for a promising job in the pet industry. If you firmly believe that you are perfect for it, yet you do not know where to start in terms of landing a job, then you should go through this guide, because it’s going to provide you with some useful information.
Do Your Research First
The pet industry is generally very big, meaning that it has a lot to offer when it comes to careers. Yes, you've heard of veterinarians, groomers, animal trainers, and other careers that are widely known.
However, passionate animal lovers at www.theacademyofpetcareers.com/ would like to remind you that there are so many careers that involve working with animals that most people have never even heard of. When we say this, we refer to aquarist, pet adoption counselor, etc.
That’s why it’s such a good idea to do your research first because not all of these jobs are going to be equally appealing to you. Keep in mind that there are professions in this industry that do not involve spending a lot of time with animals.
If that bothers you, then you should opt for the one that does. This refers to working in pet insurance companies, research facilities, and others. If your main goal is to be close to animals, then you should strive to land that type of job.
What Are You Most Passionate About?
Another thing that you’re supposed to do after the research is done, is to ask yourself what are you most passionate about as far as this is concerned. If you say that you're just an animal lover, that's a big vague because a lot of people when they say it, refer to cats and dogs.
And there's no need to remind you that working with animals doesn't involve them only. On the flip side, there are those who would love to work with horses livestock, or wild animals. Is there any animal in particular that you would like to work with?
The point is that there are so many questions that need to be asked in these instances if you want to be one hundred percent sure that you’ve made the right choice. That’s why it’s pivotal to pinpoint your passion before anything else.
Education, Education, Education
Working with animals is extremely rewarding, however, we would like to warn you right now, that it isn’t easy. After all, you need to know a lot of things about them before you start working with them.
And this refers to any job in the pet industry. Now, does this necessarily mean that you need to go to college? The answer is no. Even though that’s always a great idea, animal connoisseurs have some great news for you. Namely, from what they know, there are several options for those who are not too thrilled about going to college.
For example, you can opt for online animal care courses, or to enroll at a particular academy that encompasses various career paths concerning animals. This just goes to show that your options are quite vast when it comes to this.
And what’s even better is that you do not need to finish college to become an expert in a specific field. Whatever path you choose in terms of your education, what matters is to make sure to expand your knowledge as much as possible if you want to ensure you are really good at what you’re doing.
Gain Some Experience
These days, you can stumble upon a variety of different schools and colleges that provide students with some relevant experience when it comes to working with animals, which is a great thing.
Therefore, if you’re interested in gaining it, then you should discuss this with a careers advice officer to see what can be done to arrange it. Aside from that, you can also consider contacting work experience companies that will point you in the proper direction and provide you with specific opportunities that will enable you to perfect your skills as far as this is concerned.
Another alternative that's surely worth taking into account is working during the gap year. So what does it mean? It means that you will mix work experience and travel via certain companies that have various hosts who will offer you a place to stay, along with the food (and other necessities) in exchange for work.
If that piques your interest, then you should definitely take some time to do thorough research to see which hosts are currently looking for a workforce.
Volunteering Is Always An Amazing Option
Education is without denying necessary if you want to be successful in this industry, however, volunteering is something that provides you with experience that no book in the world can offer. That’s why it would be advisable to consider this as well.
Fortunately, there are a lot of options at your disposal when it comes to this, such as riding stables, veterinary surgeries, the RSPCA, zoos, groomers, and many other places that are always looking for people who love working with animals.
Bear in mind that the tasks you'll be having in regard to this aren't always smooth sailing, however, that's something that's going to help you enhance your CV, which will greatly benefit you in the future once you start looking for full-time employment.
At the end of the day, hardly anyone has ever gotten a job in any industry right off the bat. Most people have first started at the bottom and then gradually worked their way up, hence you should do it too.
For starters, you can call a local zoo, veterinary, or animal shelter to see if they are interested in having some volunteers. This is certainly a great starting point that will open you the doors to various fantastic opportunities.
What About Student Placements?
In case you've never heard of this before, down below we will briefly explain what it represents. Namely, it resembles volunteering in an animal shelter. By virtue of it, you'll get the idea of what working with animals truly encompasses.
When we say this, we do not refer to the good stuff only, but also to the negative sides of it. So what is the main difference between these two? When you volunteer in an animal shelter, there’s “only” practical work.
On the other hand, when it comes to student placements, you can expect to have some education as well. But this isn't necessarily anything bad. On the contrary.
By combining these two essential factors, you will not only expand your theoretical knowledge but will gain a plethora of experience too because, after all, you'll be working directly with animals.
Now, if you decide to choose this path, then keep in mind that you will need a level 3 accredited qualification (at least) as far as animal care is concerned. These placements can last up to one month, depending on the route you select.
For example, when it comes to dog grooming, there are Level 3 dog grooming courses which include around two weeks of practical training where you will get the opportunity to showcase all the things you’ve learned concerning dogs.
Besides that, you will also get the chance to watch seasoned dog groomers to see how they execute specific cuts, various methods and styles they opt for, and many other useful things that can greatly benefit you in the future.
What Are Your Virtues And Flaws?
The only thing you’re certain about when it comes to working with pets is that you’ll be working with different animals. However, there are other things that you need to take into consideration before you pick a specific career path.
For instance, would you define yourself as someone who generally loves people? Why does it matter, you’re probably wondering? Seasoned experts (as far as animals are concerned) think that you should carefully think things through because there are some jobs in the industry that involve closely working with people.
This refers to dog trainers, for example. You’ll be practically seeing them on a daily basis, hence if you do not think that your people skills are currently on an admirable level, yet you want to work as a groomer, then you should focus on honing these skills.
On the other hand, if you are genuinely very compassionate and caring, then the best career option for you is to be a vet or a vet technician because these people must have these traits.
It’s safe to say that the pet industry provides people with numerous rewarding and profitable opportunities to work with animals of different kinds. Therefore, if you’re interested in becoming part of it, then you should first go through this guide.
Finding Jobs in the Pet Industry – FAQs
- What are the most important traits for this career path?
First and foremost, love for animals is the most important thing. You need to be adaptable, compassionate, professional, responsible and have excellent attention to detail.
- How important is education for this profession?
Just like with any other profession, education plays a major role, however, it doesn’t mean that college is your only option, since there are a lot of excellent forms of education that can provide you with extensive knowledge, and simultaneously, expand existing one.
- Do you need a lot of experience in order to be successful?
A lot of experience isn’t necessary, however, some experience is definitely preferred, because, after all, you’ll be working with living beings and you need to know how they’re supposed to be treated. The more experience you have, the better.
- Can you benefit from volunteering?
Of course, you can! Volunteering gives you the chance to work with animals of different types and understand their behavior in various situations. Aside from raising awareness and helping these wonderful creatures, you’ll positively influence your physical and mental health too!
