Are you an animal lover who wishes to turn your passion into a job and dreams of working with animals every day? Well, the good news is that there are many career paths that you can consider combining your love of animals with a fulfilling job. As the saying goes, when you love what you are doing, you will not feel like it is work. That said, here is a helpful list of ten different career options, ranging from animal care to research. It will give you a starting point in your search for the perfect animal-related career. Let’s have a look.
Table of Contents
Animal Nutritionist
For individuals having a passion for both food science and animals, becoming an animal nutritionist could be the ideal career option. These specialists create diet plans to meet the specific needs of various animals. They research nutritional requirements and consult with veterinarians, animal caretakers, and part of their job. These professionals play a key role in zoos, rehabilitation centers, and pet store franchises that are dedicated to keeping pets healthy and happy.
Farm Handler
As a farm handler, your job would be to primarily oversee the day-to-day operations of farms, managing livestock, providing training to farmers, and facilitating animal transportation. This role is perfect for individuals who enjoy working with farm animals while tackling managerial responsibilities as well.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian, the doctors of the animal world, is mainly responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries in pets, livestock, and even exotic animal. Veterinarians are required to undergo specialized training, and a career in veterinary medicine requires dedication and schooling. However, it allows you to directly improve the lives of animals and bring great satisfaction.
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary technicians generally work under the supervision of veterinarians and aid in medical procedures. They are also responsible for collecting lab samples and administering medications to animals. This role is a great option if you want to work in veterinary medicine but do not want to go through the extensive schooling that is required to become a veterinarian.
Animal Conservation Officer
If you enjoy the outdoors and dislike being cooped up in an office, becoming a conservation officer could be your dream job. These law enforcement professionals enforce laws that are designed to protect wildlife. As an animal conservation office, you may be required to apprehend poachers, regulate hunting and fishing, or maintain national parks among other tasks.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation biologists are scientists who study the Earth’s climate, environmental trends, and animal populations to develop solutions for restoring habitats and protecting endangered species. Their role includes considerable research, collaboration with government officials, and educating the public about environmental issues. If you are keen on working for animals and environmental sustainability, these could be the ideal jobs for you.
Animal Care and Service Worker
This broad category refers to various animal care professions. For instance, shelter attendants find loving homes for pets, zookeepers care for animals in zoos, groomers keep pets looking their best, and kennel attendants provide care for pets while their owners are away. All these professions share a commonality- a love for animals.
Pet Store Owner
Similarly, if you have a passion for animals and an entrepreneurial spirit, consider owning pet store franchises. Several established pet store chains offer franchise opportunities. As a franchise owner, you will run your own store, selling pet food and supplies and offering grooming or other services. This path allows you to be your own boss while working directly or indirectly with animals every day.
Zoologist
Zoologists mainly study animals and their interactions with their environments. They conduct experiments to gather data and observe animal behavior. Their job also includes analyzing interactions with other species, managing populations, and studying the impact of humans on wildlife.
Entomologist
While most animal jobs focus on larger creatures, entomologists dedicate their careers to the study of insects- the essential creatures that play a key role in most environmental functions. Entomologists work to protect insect species and develop solutions for environmental restoration.
Final Thoughts
So, what do you think of these career options? This list was to give you a brief overview of a few of the many animal-related careers available. Whether you are drawn to direct animal care, scientific research, or conservation efforts, there is sure to be a perfect job waiting for you. If you are interested in learning more about specific careers, you can also talk to professionals in the field or research educational programs at your local college or university. If you are keen to learn, dedicated to work, and have a love for animals, you can surely turn your passion into a fulfilling career.
