How to Become a Seeing-Eye Dog Trainer

Many aspiring seeing-eye dog trainers do not realize how challenging it can be to get into this field of work. Openings are often limited, compensation is below average and the work itself is more varied and taxing than expected. But for those with a steadfast dedication to working with dogs and improving the quality of life for people, becoming a seeing-eye dog trainer may be the perfect career.

Things You'll Need

• College degree
• Experience with dogs
• Good people skills
• Physical stamina

Instructions

1. Graduate from college with a bachelor's degree. Although not required and there is no degree program specifically designed for seeing-eye dog trainers, a degree will give you an advantage over other applicants. A degree in social work or animal science would be especially relevant.

2. Work with animals to gain experience. While in college or waiting for the right opportunity to apply for a seeing-eye dog trainer position, try to work for canine obedience schools, veterinarians or animal shelters. Experience working directly with dogs, especially training, is a must.

3. Spend time working or volunteering with people with disabilities. The people side of being a seeing-eye dog trainer is just as important, if not more so, than the dog side. Your people skills will need to be great for this job.

4. Submit a resume to a seeing-eye dog school for any available positions. A trainer or apprentice position may not be open, but schools need people to do lesser tasks such as feeding and grooming. Most guide dog schools pull apprentices and trainers from existing staff that has already shown dedication and a natural propensity for the job.

5. Apply for an apprenticeship with a guide-dog training program. This apprenticeship typically lasts from 2 1/2 years to as much as 4 years. The apprenticeship is hard, physical work with minimal compensation and competitive enrollment. After completing your apprenticeship, promotion to trainer or instructor is possible.

6. Pass the written exam to become a guide-dog trainer. Some states require certification to become a guide dog trainer and test accordingly. Almost every seeing-eye dog school will have some sort of exam of its own for you to master.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider looking into other specializations that work with assistance animals, since the seeing eye-dog trainer field is so competitive. Hearing dogs and mobility dogs are relatively new specializations that also need trainers.

• Don't expect to make a lot of money as a seeing-eye dog trainer. You can expect to make as much as a first-year school teacher with salary increasing with experience and promotion.