Careers with animals are plentiful and vary greatly from the simpler, more conventional jobs of a dog groomer or trainer, to the more complex careers of a zoologist or veterinarian. The list goes on and on. These occupations provide a voice for animals and promote their humane treatment. To these workers, animals are a part of society that they wish to respect and appreciate through daily interaction in their careers.
Veterinarian
A veterinarian must be interested in medicine and be able to perform surgical procedures on sick animals. Some work in private practice, others are part of the staff for zoos or aquariums. Some specialize in the medical care of house pets, others specialize in treating aquatic or farm animals. According to Humane Society University, veterinarians must obtain a doctor of veterinary medicine degree, which includes two to four years of undergraduate study at a college and three to four years at a veterinary school. Specialization training requires another four years. According to payscale.com, in September 2009 the average salary was about $50,000 for beginners and about $103,500 for those with 20 or more years' experience.
Animal Trainer
According to Humane Society University, the most popular job for the field of professional animal training is a dog obedience trainer. Trainers must teach animals react and behave properly in certain situations or with the use of certain hand or voice commands. They prepare dogs to help the disabled and blind. Aquarium trainers teach seals shake hands or dolphins jump through hoops. Some organizations, like Sea World and Disney, offer training programs of their own. Colleges offer animal behavior classes. According to payscale.com, as of September 2009, the average salary was about $12,300 in the first year to more than $60,000 after 20 years or more.
Zoologist
Zoologists are biological scientists who study various types of animals through observation in laboratories and natural habitats. These researchers gather information about diseases, evolution of a species, behavior and interaction with one another. Many work with colleges, zoos and laboratories. According to schoolsintheusa.com, a zoologist must have at least a bachelor's degree in zoology or biological science. Many choose to obtain a master's or doctoral degree. Schoolsintheusa.com says zoologists earn $29,000 yearly as a beginner and $47,700 to $71,300 after gaining experience.
Pet Groomer
People take their pets to groomers to have them bathed, their nails clipped and their fur cut and styled. According to Humane Society University, a person can become a groomer by being an apprentice or by attending a pet-grooming school. Groomers work very closely with the animals, so being comfortable around pets is essential. According to schoolsintheusa.com, the average yearly salary ranges from $12,800 to $27,900.
Animal Control Officer
Animal control officers work closely with both animals and pet owners. Their duties may involve inspections of businesses housing animals; rescuing trapped, lost or stray animals; and following up on reports of animal abuse. According to Humane Society University, a high school diploma and on-the-job training is enough to enter the field; however, a college degree in criminology, animal science or law enforcement provides great additional credentials. According to the website, the profession is growing at a faster-than-average rate nationwide. In 2000, the National Animal Control Association reported entry-level salaries of $13,200 to $44,100.
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