Animal-related careers from trade school education?

I love working with animals and wonder what kinds of animal-related jobs I can pursue through trade school programs. Are there specific schools or programs that anyone would recommend?

There are quite a few animal-related careers that can be pursued through trade school programs. Trade schools usually offer shorter, more focused training compared to traditional four-year degrees, which is great if you're eager to hit the ground running.

One of the most common trades involving animals is veterinary technology. This two-year program prepares you to assist veterinarians in clinical practices, animal hospitals, and research facilities. Veterinary technicians perform medical tests under a veterinarian's supervision to help diagnose animal illnesses and injuries. You might want to look into schools that have American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accredited programs, as these will provide a comprehensive education in the field.

Grooming is another area you can consider. Many trade schools offer programs that teach students how to properly groom a variety of animals, usually focusing on dogs and cats. This also includes business training, so you could potentially open your own grooming business one day.

Animal behavior and training is a growing field, with demand for certified dog trainers, horse trainers, and animal behavior experts. Some trade schools offer programs that provide knowledge on different animal behavior and effective training methods.

Equine care and management programs are available at some trade schools, particularly those in regions with strong equine industries. You will learn basic horse care, horse nutrition, and other specific aspects of working with horses.

Lastly, you could consider programs in aquaristics, the care and husbandry of aquarium animals. These programs prepare students for work in public aquariums, pet stores, or aquatic research institutions.

Keep in mind course availability can vary from institution to institution, so be sure to do your research on schools that have strong programs in the area you're interested in. Some big names in these fields are the Bel-Rea Institute of Animal Technology and the Animal Behavior Institute, but there may be quality programs close to you as well. Remember to consider program length, cost, location, and job placement rates when making your decision.