Service Animal Trainer
By: Basia Petteway
Nature of the Job
Service and assistance animals, such as dogs and horses, provide long-lasting benefits for children with special needs or disabilities. And not only can they help children, but really anyone who has needs or disabilities. Although the animals are the ones who help people, the trainers are the ones who have to teach the animals, which a lot of people disregard. Though it will take more than a love of animals and helping people to make it in this field, with determination and hard work, you can make a difference in a lot of lives.
Examples of Service Animals
Enviornment
Being a trainer, you will be working in a variety of atmospheres. Some will include in the field or real world with your animal, in the "class room" or training facility, or even in a home you are the owner of the animal as well.
How Do You Become One?
To become a service animal trainer, you must have at least a college degree and a training degree and apprenticeship in your field of animals whether it be dogs, horses, etc.
Pay and Job Outlook
Your pay will depend on the organization, whether it be non-profit or funded, it really depends on your personal preference. If you in desire of a paying job as one, the mean hourly wage is about $14.59 and the mean annual wage is about $30,340. The job outlook as a service animal trainer: the employment estimate is about 11,170. So overall, he job outlook should be very good.
Similar Occupations
Similar occupations include veterinarians, animal trainers, and animal service and care workers.