If you’re an animal lover looking for a career involving your passion, there are more options than you might think. Many careers involve working with animals that fall outside of dog walking or pet sitting. The majority of which have ample room for progression and higher earnings with further experience or study.
Your first port of call is finding one that aligns with your interests. Whether you enjoy caring for animals or want to understand their behaviour, there is a related role to suit.
Some careers working with animals require higher education and degree level learning. A large number can be accessed through relevant experience or college courses. You could be on the way to an enjoyable career in very little time depending on your chosen path.
If you’re ready to find the role that’s right for you, take a look at the options listed below. This should help give you an idea of just how varied careers working with animals can be. Plus, we’ve included the courses you can take to get started in each area.
Animal Welfare Officer
As an Animal Welfare Officer, you will educate people on ways to prevent animal cruelty. You will inspect both commercial and residential properties and remove or re-home any animals you believe to be at risk.
Most Animal Welfare Officers work with councils and licensed animal businesses. Making sure that any businesses caring for animals has the appropriate requirements and meets the care and welfare standards set out by DEFRA in the UK. This could be anything from kennels and catteries to animal daycare centres, home boarding to small animal businesses.
To work in this role, you need an Ofqual regulated Level 3 Diploma or equivalent. It is recommended that you obtain this qualification before you apply for an Animal Welfare Officer role. With this Level 3 Diploma Animal Welfare Officer qualification, you can work with your local council or use it to train with an Animal Charity. After gaining further experience you can also move into specialist roles like an Equine Officer or Wildlife Officer.
Dog Groomer
Grooming plays a larger part in a dogs wellbeing than some might think. Certain breeds need regular grooming to maintain good physical health. This could be anything from ear cleaning and claw clipping, to dental cleaning and maintaning their coats. As well as ensuring their coat is well kept and matte-free.
As a Dog Groomer, you have to inform your clients how to properly care for their dog in-between sessions. You’ll check the dog for signs of infection or disease during their visit, notifying the owner should you find anything.
Dog grooming can be a highly rewarding career. And you can study a course that teaches you how to run your own small animal business should you choose to.
The role requires a lot of discipline and a thorough understanding of techniques to execute them properly. You can get all you need to operate effectively as a qualified Dog Groomer by taking a dedicated course.
This will teach you many aspects of the trade. From the coat cuts suitable for different breeds of dogs, to the health & safety and legislation requirements for opening your own business.
Upon completion, you’ll be that much closer to combining your love of dogs with your professional life.
Kennel and Cattery Manager
When dogs and cats require a place to stay, their owners/caregivers often utilise the services of kennels and catteries. These businesses take care of dogs and cats when their caregivers are unable to look after them, sometimes for short or long periods of time.
You don’t need a degree to work in a kennel or cattery. However, a comprehensive understanding of dog and catbehaviour and welfare is wise. This is because it’s your responsibility to know how to provide the necessary accommodation, enrichment and nutritional food, and care needs that they require.
As a Kennel or Cattery Manager, you can also find work within animal charities. Whose focus tends to be on the rehabilitation and rehoming of pets that are fit for adoption. To work in these facilities, you’ll need expertise in animal legislation as well as behavioural knowledge.
A Level 3 Diploma in Kennel and Cattery Management provides the insight needed to effectively care for these animals. Ensuring their physical and psychological needs are met under your supervision.
Alongside this, you’ll gain an understanding of how to run your very own kennel or cattery. Gaining expertise in animal care as well as developing the business acumen to succeed independently should you want to.
Small Animal Hydrotherapist
Hydrotherapy for animals is growing in popularity, which means qualified small animal hydrotherapists are in-demand. That’s because the low-impact treatment of Hydrotherapy techniques can be beneficial for recovery post-op and support a host of neurological and orthopaedic conditions.
As a Small Animal Hydrotherapist, you’ll operate and use state of the art aquatic treadmills to support your (Animal) patients. Helping them to lead happier, healthier lives. It is a type of therapy that is being increasingly recommended and used by animal behaviouralists and veterinary professionals.
Independent hydrotherapy clinics are becoming a regular source of treatment for animals who are in need of rehabilitation for their condition or injury. And those who complete the higher qualification levels can use it to set up their own small animal hydrotherapy business should they desire.
The Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy provides the essential skills to work as a Small Animal Hydrotherapist. Teaching you all about gait analysis, first aid, the tissue healing process and professional practice management.
Start Working with Animals
Whatever animal career you’re interested in, Stonebridge Associated Colleges can help you realise your ambitions.
As the UK’s leading online learning provider, we have various veterinary science and animal care courses to choose from.
All of which have flexible payment options and dedicated online tutors to support your learning. They’ll answer any of your questions and provide constructive feedback to help you stay on track with your goals.
If you’re ready to get qualified for a career working with animals view the courses we have on offer below.
Leave a Reply