5 of the best jobs for animal lovers
Every animal lover wants to make a living doing what they love: caring for creatures. Luckily, the UK's diverse ecosystem presents countless opportunities to do just that.
From the caring attention of dog groomers to the rigorous practices of animal trainers, people of all backgrounds can find jobs working with animals: you just need to know what’s out there!
So, stay with Distance Learning Centre as we tell you 5 of the best jobs for animal lovers, and if you’re looking to get qualified, don’t forget to check out our online animal care courses.
1. Dog groomer
A dog groomer’s responsibility is to take care of dogs' hygiene needs by maintaining and styling their fur.
However, the day-to-day responsibilities involve a variety of grooming services not limited to washing. Groomers clean the pets' ears, trim their nails, brush their teeth, dry their coats, clip them to breed standards and even detangle hair!
Successful groomers must have a passionate love for dogs and animals. They also need strong communication skills to understand pet owners' needs and manage any special requests.
Given the demanding nature of the job (which often involves handling various dog temperaments and sizes), patience, attention to detail, and physical stamina are also valuable qualities.
You can start your career by taking a Dog Grooming Level 3 Course. In this, you’ll learn more about the relationship between humans and dogs and how to adapt grooming techniques to suit different breeds.
2. Pet store assistant
Working in a pet shop means managing the store’s daily operations, serving customers, and ensuring the well-being of animals.
On a typical day, a pet store assistant will feed and water the animals, clean habitats, and groom them as required. They also interact with customers, offering advice on pet care and helping them select the right products.
But what type of person succeeds in a pet store assistant role? Animal lovers, of course! Alongside a genuine love of pets, you may also stand out in the hiring process if you have some background in animal care.
Qualifications like an Animal Care Level 2 Course will demonstrate to employers that you have the basic skills and knowledge to understand the care which a wide range of animals require.
3. Veterinary receptionist
Veterinary receptionists are the face and first point of contact at a veterinary clinic.
The role comes with many responsibilities, including greeting clients and their pets, scheduling appointments, managing billing and payments, and maintaining a welcoming environment.
Every day will be different, but animal lovers with a friendly demeanour will help make clients and their pets feel more comfortable during potentially stressful visits.
While each veterinary practice will ask for different qualifications, you may be able to get ahead by taking IT user skills courses.
For example, an IT Essentials Level 2 RQF Course gives you a rounded knowledge of essential administrative software like Microsoft Excel, Word and Access: three things you’re likely to use as a veterinary receptionist.
4. Pet sitter
If you prefer flexible working conditions and are passionate about animal welfare, a job as a pet sitter may be perfect for you.
Pet sitters can undertake a variety of tasks, such as feeding, grooming, and administering medication, according to the owner's instructions.
Pet sitters often visit the owner's home to care for the animals, which means they may also be responsible for securing the home and managing any other house-related tasks.
You don’t need any experience to be a pet sitter, as most people get started by working for friends and family.
However, by getting experience and building a reputation as a reliable pet sitter, you may be able to grow a steady stream of clients through referrals.
5. Animal trainer
Trainers work with various types of animals to prepare them for performances, assist those with disabilities, participate in competitions, or simply improve their obedience.
The role is diverse and can involve working with domestic pets like dogs and cats, farm animals, and even exotic animals in zoos or aquariums.
To be an animal trainer, you’ll need a lot of patience: training animals is not instantaneous and can require significant time commitments.
They’ll need to have a clear understanding of animal behaviour, as trainers must notice when animals do not respond to their methods and adjust their techniques accordingly.
Qualifications may vary wildly, but again, having a basic understanding of animal care can be a good foundation for further development.
Courses like the Animal Care QLS Level 3 Course are a step up from the Level 2 qualification. The Level 3 course goes into further detail, looking at the behaviour of domesticated and exotic animals, marine life and reptiles.
