Are there opportunities for working with animals in the military?

I'm really interested in working with animals but also considering joining the military. Does the military offer any roles or careers that involve animals? If so, what kind of positions are available, and how competitive are they?

Absolutely, there are opportunities to work with animals within the military.

One of the most common roles involving animals is that of a Military Working Dog Handler. They handle and train working dogs that are often used for law enforcement, protection, and detection purposes. They might work with dogs that detect explosives or narcotics, for example. It's a unique bond as both the handler and the dog are considered a team, both crucial to completing their mission.

A Veterinary Corps Officer is another role that heavily interacts with animals. These are essentially the veterinarians of the military. They not only take care of the health of military working dogs, but they may also provide veterinary care for personal pets at military bases. Furthermore, they may work with special forces units and infrastructure, providing specialized care for a wide range of animals.

As a note, these positions require different levels of commitment and training. For instance, to be a Veterinary Corps Officer generally requires a degree in veterinary medicine, while becoming a Military Working Dog Handler does not.

Given the specific nature of these roles, they can be quite competitive. Demonstrating a genuine passion for animal care, as well as relevant experiences – perhaps by volunteering or working in an animal-focused role – will give you a competitive edge.

Remember that succession in these roles will not only require a love for animals but also the physical and mental fortitude that is associated with being in the military. Therefore, commitment, discipline, and resilience are key personal attributes that will benefit you in these roles.

If this is something that truly interests you, it would definitely be worth looking into these roles further and speaking with a military recruiter who can provide more detailed information specific to your circumstances.