How can I become a dog handler in the military?

I love working with animals and am considering enlisting after high school. What are the steps to becoming a dog handler in the military, and what should I focus on during my senior year to prepare for this role?

Becoming a military dog handler can be a rewarding career path for those who love animals and wish to serve their country. Here are the general steps and preparation tips to help you on your journey:

1. High School Preparation: Focus on subjects such as physical education, biology, and psychology to develop a base understanding of the required athletic prowess, the biological workings of the animals you'll be handling, and the training methods used in this role.

2. Join the Military: After graduation, you'll need to enlist in one of the branches of the military. To do so, you'll need to meet the standard eligibility criteria, which usually includes being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, being between 17-39 years old, and possessing a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

3. Take the ASVAB: As part of your enrollment process, you will take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This test will help determine your eligibility for certain military occupational specialties. To become a military dog handler, you’ll need a high score in the 'General Technical' section.

4. Complete Basic Training: After successful enlistment, you'll first go through basic training, where you'll learn the fundamental skills of being a soldier.

5. Undergo Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Training: After basic training, you'll need to express your interest in becoming a dog handler. Each branch has its own Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) code for dog handlers (for instance, it's “31K” in the Army and “MWD Handler” in the Navy). If selected, you'd then undergo specialized training in this field.

6. Get Some Experience: Often, the military prefers candidates with more experience in the service. It's possible that you may need to serve in a different role for a couple of years before being eligible for a dog handler position.

7. Dog Handling School: Once selected, expect to complete a military working dog handler course, which generally lasts several months and covers all aspects of working with military dogs, from basic obedience and tactical training to veterinary care.

Remember that being a military dog handler can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring enthusiasm, commitment, and a love for dogs. You can continue to cultivate these characteristics in your senior year by involving yourself in activities related to animal care, like volunteering at a local animal shelter or pursuing a part-time job in a pet care facility. This will help prepare you for the role and demonstrate your commitment to working with animals. Best of luck with your aspirations!