Dog trainers in Missouri can help families properly teach their new pet.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that dog trainers receive most of their education through on-the-job training, attending workshops and through coursework on canine behavior and the learning theory of animals. Professional dog training associations like the International Association of Canine Professionals provide educational resources for aspiring trainers, while local training businesses, animal shelters and rescue organizations in Missouri can provide animal lovers with dog handling experience. To find employment, trainers should consider professional resources like the IACP and network with animal welfare groups or established obedience schools.
Instructions
1. Get dog handling experience. Having a general comfort with dogs is an essential part of becoming a dog trainer. If you do not have a personal family pet, volunteer with a local animal shelter or dog rescue facility. The Humane Society of Missouri accepts volunteers to care for rescued dogs and recruits foster homes for dogs transitioning from rescue to adoption. Training is provided to volunteers working with the organization, and training materials for basic animal handling are included.
2. Take a dog obedience trainer course. Check with your local community college or vocational school to see if workshops are available in animal behavior modification. National training courses are also provided through training organizations like the Animal Behavior College. In Missouri, aspiring dog trainers can complete a comprehensive dog training program at the Tom Rose School located in Saint Louis. Training will include coursework in dog obedience, agility, leading training classes and the fundamentals of running your own business.
3. Seek employment as a dog trainer. If you have completed a program like the one offered at the Tom Rose School, contact the program to inquire about dog training opportunities at an entry-level or apprenticeship level. Also post your information on the school site for consideration by local employers. Contact the organizations where you volunteered to inquire about job openings for professional trainers. Consider joining professional organizations like the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the International Association of Canine Professionals for access to job listings and other professional resources (see Resources). Finally, contact local obedience training schools in the state of Missouri to inquire directly about openings at their facilities.
4. Consider certification to enhance your career opportunity. While it is not a requirement in the state of Missouri, certification will enhance your resume and demonstrate your dog training and behavior modification skills. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers offers a national certifying exam for dog trainers. To download the candidate handbook and learn more about applying to take the test, visit the CCPDT website (see Resources).
Tags: about openings, aspiring trainers, Association Canine, Association Canine Professionals, behavior modification