How to Find a Career Helping Animals

You’d love a career that's animal-related—working with animals, helping to make a difference for animals—anything that involves animals, really. Something rewarding. Something you wouldn’t mind—in fact, something you would actually enjoy getting up for in the morning. Can you make it happen? Well, you'll need more than just a love for animals to beat out the competition. Here are some ways to get started.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access

1. Be aware that many skills or occupations can be geared toward animals. For example, if you are interested in the field of law, there are lawyers who specialize in animal law, realtors that specialize in pet-friendly properties, writers who concentrate on dog and cat care.
2. Survey the careers that are specifically animal-related: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), veterinary technician, running a doggie day care, pet sitter/dog walker, dog trainer, groomer, humane investigator or officer—the list goes on.
3. Decide if you would like to start your own business or work under someone else. You might want to work for someone else starting off. If you decide to go into business for yourself, decide whether or not it would be more feasible to work from home.
4. Research the earning potential and figure out how much time you’re willing or able to put into training. Also, if you are currently employed, consider if you would completely resign or stay on part time. If you are considering your own business, research the start-up costs and how long you would be operating at a loss or without profit.
5. Check the education requirements after narrowing in on a profession. Even if a degree is not required, coursework can increase your chances of landing a job. Check universities and community colleges that offer courses in animal ethics, animal rights, or animal welfare, and explore possible related college majors (provided you have the will and the time to pursue it).
6. Volunteering at a humane organization, spay/neuter clinic, shelter or rescue for at least a few hours a week would be helpful. Or how about animal advocacy? Writing letters, making phone calls, appearing at hearings in your state capital when new animal legislation is introduced. The more animal-related background and experience, the better your chances.
7. Search online for openings once you are ready to begin the job hunt. Visit websites of major animal/humane organizations such as the Humane Society and ASPCA, and check animal services on your city's homepage.
8. Check the websites of similar businesses if you are planning to start your own business. Visit several in person. It would be most beneficial to observe the day-to-day operation and consult with owners.

Tips & Warnings

• If you consult with someone else in the profession it would be best to seek out one who is unbiased (i.e. someone who doesn't perceive you as competition or a threat)
• In just about any animal-related profession, the ones you ultimately have to answer to—are the two-legged. If you love animals and hate people—that may not cut it.