Gap Year Paid Work with Animals: Options?

I love animals and am considering spending my gap year involved in paid work with them. Does anyone know of any programs or jobs I could consider, either in the US or abroad? I'd really appreciate any leads.

There are indeed quite a few options for working with animals during a gap year. However, do keep in mind that paid positions can be more competitive since many animal work experiences are volunteer-based. Still, there's a good variety of opportunities available.

In the US, consider looking for opportunities in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or on farms. Many of these places have positions for dog walkers, animal care assistants, or farmhands. For a more unique experience, consider working on a ranch or somewhere exotic like a horse training center.

Jobs at zoos, aquariums, and wildlife conservation centers can be incredibly rewarding. However, these positions tend to require more specialized knowledge, so they might provide internships or volunteer positions instead of regular paid work.

Another option is pet sitting or dog walking. Sites like Rover in the U.S. connect pet owners with caretakers and usually these are paid jobs.

If you're interested in travelling abroad, jobs in wildlife conservation or rehabilitation centers, such as monkey rehabilitation in South Africa or a sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica, can provide a unique experience. Pay and conditions vary so you'll need to do some research to find a situation that suits you.

Remember that, paid or not, the most important aspect is the valuable experience you will acquire while working with animals, and how beneficial this can be for your future career, if you're considering a field related to animal welfare or biology.