4 answers
Hannah
Student
Box Elder, South Dakota
11
Questions
Asked
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I have a passion for exotic animals and for animal rescue. What Career options would be good for me?
I really want to work with animals but I struggle with and very much dislike biology and the science courses. I have high functioning autism and want to find a job that fits with who I am. I'm interested in working at a zoo or an animal rescue place, but I don't know what education I need to pursue.
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4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
The Humane Society and other regional animal shelters. They have all the elements and activities, that you are describing.
They may have volunteer opportunities in your region. You might contact them and see if you can work for them, to get an idea, if it is what you would like to do as a future career.
They may have volunteer opportunities in your region. You might contact them and see if you can work for them, to get an idea, if it is what you would like to do as a future career.
Brittney McGuire
Licensed Veterinary Technician
3
Answers
Port Jefferson Station, New York
Updated
Brittney’s Answer
Rescues all around the world need help! It is a career in high demand, but unfortunately, not well paid. Hands on is a great way to learn in this field. A lot of shelters are also looking for good dog trainers. Becoming a dog trainer requires more psychology than science and math and is predominantly taught through classes, experience and internships.
That said, don’t sell yourself short! In my veterinary technician school one of my class mates had moderate to high functioning autism. He wasn’t great at science and math either, but he wanted it. He needed to take a couple of the science classes twice, but he did it! We are in short supply of vet techs interested in exotics. Your best bet is to work at an exotic vet, volunteer at an animal shelter, or shadow a dog trainer to help you decide what path to follow (you can always change your mind).
Many people have challenges (some more than others) in these fields, which often means more when they succeed in following their dreams. Good luck!
That said, don’t sell yourself short! In my veterinary technician school one of my class mates had moderate to high functioning autism. He wasn’t great at science and math either, but he wanted it. He needed to take a couple of the science classes twice, but he did it! We are in short supply of vet techs interested in exotics. Your best bet is to work at an exotic vet, volunteer at an animal shelter, or shadow a dog trainer to help you decide what path to follow (you can always change your mind).
Many people have challenges (some more than others) in these fields, which often means more when they succeed in following their dreams. Good luck!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Hannah !
All animal science oriented careers will require a large demand of sciences and biology and chemistry. I would advise definitely going for a college degree, however, but not in animal science.
I would suggest majoring in Business or Public Relations or Communications Studies. Every Zoo, Aquarium and large animal venues have Administrative staff that you can be part of. Simultaneously, you can do volunteer work at an animal shelter if you wanted. A business Degree would greatly help you to possibly open a Pet Shop or Pet Spa. You can see if you'd like to work in one of the chain pet stores, also.
Working hands on with animals beyond cleaning cages or handling them requires experience in understanding both the animals' physical and behavioral nature and needs. This is learned through college for Zoology or Animal Science. If you change your mind about the science aspect of it, you could always major in that to be an expert with the health and behavior of animals. Other than that, it would be awesome to own your own business centering on animals or working as an administrator in large zoos and aquariums.
You could also obtain training as a dog and cat groomer or a horse groomer (hoof care). Also think about being an Administrative Assistant at a Veterinary Office or Animal Hospital. Another idea is to become a dog trainer for Certified Service dogs. I have left a referral link for you below with more ideas.
I do urge you to attend college for a degree, however, and you will have to take one or two science classes in order to get your degree, but it will be well worth it for more employment opportunities later on.
I hope that this is a bit of a help and I wish you all the best !
JOBS WITH ANIMALS NO COLLEGE DEGREE https://work.chron.com/careers-work-different-types-animals-day-7470.html
All animal science oriented careers will require a large demand of sciences and biology and chemistry. I would advise definitely going for a college degree, however, but not in animal science.
I would suggest majoring in Business or Public Relations or Communications Studies. Every Zoo, Aquarium and large animal venues have Administrative staff that you can be part of. Simultaneously, you can do volunteer work at an animal shelter if you wanted. A business Degree would greatly help you to possibly open a Pet Shop or Pet Spa. You can see if you'd like to work in one of the chain pet stores, also.
Working hands on with animals beyond cleaning cages or handling them requires experience in understanding both the animals' physical and behavioral nature and needs. This is learned through college for Zoology or Animal Science. If you change your mind about the science aspect of it, you could always major in that to be an expert with the health and behavior of animals. Other than that, it would be awesome to own your own business centering on animals or working as an administrator in large zoos and aquariums.
You could also obtain training as a dog and cat groomer or a horse groomer (hoof care). Also think about being an Administrative Assistant at a Veterinary Office or Animal Hospital. Another idea is to become a dog trainer for Certified Service dogs. I have left a referral link for you below with more ideas.
I do urge you to attend college for a degree, however, and you will have to take one or two science classes in order to get your degree, but it will be well worth it for more employment opportunities later on.
I hope that this is a bit of a help and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Cassandra Carpenter
Veterinary assistant
19
Answers
Morton, Washington
Updated
Cassandra’s Answer
Consider exploring volunteer or internship opportunities at your nearby zoos or wildlife rehabilitation centers. Be ready to move to a new place if it means gaining valuable experience. Remember, this is a career driven by passion, not by financial gain. Your responsibilities and work hours may change with the seasons, but this job offers unique experiences that most people will never get to enjoy.