Are there trade school programs related to working with animals? I've always loved animals and wonder if there are hands-on careers I could jump into after high school that involve animal care.
Absolutely! There are a number of trade school programs that can prepare you for career paths working with animals. Here are a few examples:
1. Veterinary Technician or Veterinary Assistant: These are the people who assist veterinarians in clinics. They feed and care for animals, help veterinarians with surgical procedures, and sometimes even perform basic medical procedures. This job usually requires a two-year associate degree from a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association
2. Dog Training: Dog trainers work with both dogs and their owners to help dogs learn commands and overcome behavior problems. Some trade schools offer programs in dog training, though you could also get started by apprenticing with a professional dog trainer.
3. Farrier Sciences: Farriers are professionals who specialize in hoof care for horses, including shoeing. This usually necessitates a certificate program, which can be as short as 8 weeks or as long as two years. This can be a great career path if you live in an area with a lot of horse ownership.
4. Grooming: Pet groomers keep pets looking their best by providing services like haircuts, nail trims, and baths. Some trade schools offer grooming programs that can teach you the skills you need to start your own grooming business or work in a pet store or grooming salon.
5. Wildlife Rehabilitation: This is a more specialized field that involves caring for injured or sick wild animals until they can be released back into the wild. While not all trade schools offer programs specifically in wildlife rehabilitation, some do.
6. Zookeeper or Aquarium Specialist: These professionals care for animals in zoos, aquariums, and animal parks. This is another more specialized field, but some trade schools offer programs that provide the necessary training.
It's worth noting that some of these careers may require licensure or certification, which could involve passing an exam, completing a certain amount of supervised work experience, or both. Be sure to research the requirements in your state if you're considering one of these paths!
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