Animal Trainer Salary
An animal trainer is a very rewarding profession. You are responsible for training the animal to either perform a service or function or to simply perform. Many animal trainers focus on working with performance animals like in a circus or zoo type environment, while other focus on training animals like seeing-eye-dogs for use by those with disabilities. Along with training animals, animal trainers are also trusted with the animals well-being, including nutrition, proper exercise, and the taking care of health issues. The majority of animal trainers work independently without a parent company, which does provide a certain amount of freedom, but will make your responsible for your entire income, the number of clients you have, and the types of animals your are working with. Most animal trainers tend to deal specifically with a certain kind of animal or type of animal and stick that particular type. For those who are not wanting to work independently, many find suitable work at a zoo, school, farms, or animal themed amusement parks.
This is one of the many career where the animal trainer salary is dependent on experience more than educations, but education never really hurts. Since the majority of animal trainers are animal lovers, many have on-the-job training to learn from rather than a classroom style setting. Education is still a good idea for those looking to get a job with an organization, and it can help to bring in work for those who are working independently. Getting a degree in veterinary science, biology, or going through a specific training program can greatly affect the amount of money earned. Still, many start their career through what they learn on the job or working with animals. Many get their beginnings volunteering at a local shelter or by donating their time with another organization. There are certain qualification required for certain types of animals, like marine mammals. Since many of these are kept with zoos and aquatic parks, college degrees and certifications will be needed to work with them.
Those who are planning to start their own business and work independently could also benefit from an entrepreneurial degree.
Being an animal trainer is much more rewarding personally than it is financially. Many staffed animal trainers will make around $12 an hour, with many of the top trainers in certain facilities making around $21. The real place to be in this field is working independently. With a lot of hard work and a solid business plan, you income could be considerably higher than those who work at a zoo or animal park.
