6 answers
Harman
Student
Maine, NY
1
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what are the qualification for animal husbandry?
whats animal husbandry
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6 answers
Nirah Shomer, DVM PhD DACLAM
Senior leader in laboratory animal science, animal welfare, and regulatory compliance
61
Answers
Updated
Nirah’s Answer
Hello, Harmon.
Animal husbandry means taking care of animals. However, there are a broad range of jobs in animal husbandry that could require anything from just a high school diploma to a PhD in genetics.
One career path that I haven’t seen others here mention is animal husbandry in a research and scientific setting. Laboratory animals require husbandry, and there are many animal husbandry jobs working in universities or in the breeding operations of laboratory animal vendors. These jobs usually offer excellent benefits and a good salary, and have an extensive career ladder available to you, with on the job training, certification by a national agency, and education options to help you advance in the field. For these jobs, you typically need only a high school diploma to start at the entry level. Having an associates or bachelors degree in animal science or related fields can offer you options to start at a higher level, or grow more quickly. For more information about a career in laboratory animal science as an animal husbandry technician, supervisor, or manager, check out the website aalas.org.
Animal husbandry means taking care of animals. However, there are a broad range of jobs in animal husbandry that could require anything from just a high school diploma to a PhD in genetics.
One career path that I haven’t seen others here mention is animal husbandry in a research and scientific setting. Laboratory animals require husbandry, and there are many animal husbandry jobs working in universities or in the breeding operations of laboratory animal vendors. These jobs usually offer excellent benefits and a good salary, and have an extensive career ladder available to you, with on the job training, certification by a national agency, and education options to help you advance in the field. For these jobs, you typically need only a high school diploma to start at the entry level. Having an associates or bachelors degree in animal science or related fields can offer you options to start at a higher level, or grow more quickly. For more information about a career in laboratory animal science as an animal husbandry technician, supervisor, or manager, check out the website aalas.org.
Sasha Joogoolsingh
Human Resources
50
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Sasha’s Answer
Hi Harman,
Animal husbandry is a career devoted to breeding animals in order to improve desirable traits while mitigating less desirable ones. This requires knowledge of animal genetics, which could be obtained through a degree program or through close on-the-job observation. Animal husbandry professionals could work with one or many types of animal to improve genetics of a population through breeding. This job is critically important to farmers and other professionals relying on the productivity or vigor of animals to earn a living.
What Will My Career in Animal Husbandry Entail?
It will be your responsibility to choose animals for breeding that will ultimately display the traits desired by your clients. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), desirable traits might include sheep that produce thicker wool or cows that produce more milk. You may work with a wide range of animals, including chickens, goats, cattle and other farm animals. You may also work with domestic animals, including cats, dogs and pet birds.
To increase your chances for successful breeding, you must understand the physiology of the animals you are attempting to breed; this requires careful monitoring and analysis of the animals. You may breed animals using artificial insemination; this is most common with very expensive or large animals, including horses. Your work in animal husbandry may involve a mix of outdoor and laboratory-based work; you might need to travel to clients' farms.
High School Requirements:
High school students seeking to enter this field will find that the more agriculture and science courses they take in high school, the better prepared they will be. In addition, courses in mathematics, business, communications, chemistry, and mechanics are valuable.
Postsecondary School/ Training:
Nine months to two years at a technical school or a college diploma are the usual minimum credentials for animal breeders and technicians. Many colleges now offer two- and four-year programs in animal science or animal husbandry where additional knowledge, skills, and specialized training may be acquired. Besides learning the scientific side of animal breeding, including instruction in genetics, animal physiology, and some veterinary science, students also take business classes that help them see the field from an economic point of view. With the increasing use of technology for breeding livestock and domesticated nonfarm animals, a bachelor's degree becomes more important for succeeding in the field. Master's and doctoral degrees are useful for the most specialized fields and the careers that require the most sophisticated genetic planning. Higher degrees are required for potential teachers in the field, and the current work being done in cloning is done exclusively by people with doctorates.
Whether trained by experience, at an academic institution, or both, all new hires at major breeding companies are usually put through some type of training program.
Other Education or Training
Continuing education opportunities are provided by the American Society of Animal Science, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, and the National Association of Animal Breeders. Contact these organizations for more information.
Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements:
1. Certification or Licensing
2. Certification is not required, but nearly all major companies have certification programs that can enhance earnings and opportunities.
Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits:
You can obtain experience in the field by working with animals in volunteer or internship positions or by participating in "learn-and-earn" programs in college, in which you receive training, both in the classroom and through on-the-job work.
Animal breeders and technicians should have great love, empathy, and respect for animals. You must be patient and compassionate in addition to being very knowledgeable about the needs and habits of all the animals in your care. You must also have interest in reproductive science, genetics and animal physiology. It is important to be able to communicate easily with agricultural scientists, farmers, and other animal owners and caretakers.
I hope this helps. Best of luck!
Animal husbandry is a career devoted to breeding animals in order to improve desirable traits while mitigating less desirable ones. This requires knowledge of animal genetics, which could be obtained through a degree program or through close on-the-job observation. Animal husbandry professionals could work with one or many types of animal to improve genetics of a population through breeding. This job is critically important to farmers and other professionals relying on the productivity or vigor of animals to earn a living.
What Will My Career in Animal Husbandry Entail?
It will be your responsibility to choose animals for breeding that will ultimately display the traits desired by your clients. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), desirable traits might include sheep that produce thicker wool or cows that produce more milk. You may work with a wide range of animals, including chickens, goats, cattle and other farm animals. You may also work with domestic animals, including cats, dogs and pet birds.
To increase your chances for successful breeding, you must understand the physiology of the animals you are attempting to breed; this requires careful monitoring and analysis of the animals. You may breed animals using artificial insemination; this is most common with very expensive or large animals, including horses. Your work in animal husbandry may involve a mix of outdoor and laboratory-based work; you might need to travel to clients' farms.
High School Requirements:
High school students seeking to enter this field will find that the more agriculture and science courses they take in high school, the better prepared they will be. In addition, courses in mathematics, business, communications, chemistry, and mechanics are valuable.
Postsecondary School/ Training:
Nine months to two years at a technical school or a college diploma are the usual minimum credentials for animal breeders and technicians. Many colleges now offer two- and four-year programs in animal science or animal husbandry where additional knowledge, skills, and specialized training may be acquired. Besides learning the scientific side of animal breeding, including instruction in genetics, animal physiology, and some veterinary science, students also take business classes that help them see the field from an economic point of view. With the increasing use of technology for breeding livestock and domesticated nonfarm animals, a bachelor's degree becomes more important for succeeding in the field. Master's and doctoral degrees are useful for the most specialized fields and the careers that require the most sophisticated genetic planning. Higher degrees are required for potential teachers in the field, and the current work being done in cloning is done exclusively by people with doctorates.
Whether trained by experience, at an academic institution, or both, all new hires at major breeding companies are usually put through some type of training program.
Other Education or Training
Continuing education opportunities are provided by the American Society of Animal Science, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, and the National Association of Animal Breeders. Contact these organizations for more information.
Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements:
1. Certification or Licensing
2. Certification is not required, but nearly all major companies have certification programs that can enhance earnings and opportunities.
Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits:
You can obtain experience in the field by working with animals in volunteer or internship positions or by participating in "learn-and-earn" programs in college, in which you receive training, both in the classroom and through on-the-job work.
Animal breeders and technicians should have great love, empathy, and respect for animals. You must be patient and compassionate in addition to being very knowledgeable about the needs and habits of all the animals in your care. You must also have interest in reproductive science, genetics and animal physiology. It is important to be able to communicate easily with agricultural scientists, farmers, and other animal owners and caretakers.
I hope this helps. Best of luck!
Benjamin Thompson
Veterinary Assistant
1
Answer
Staunton, Virginia
Updated
Benjamin’s Answer
Animal husbandry is the setup you would have to care for an animal. For example you would put a fish in an aquarium with water and maybe some decorations, as well as, making sure temperatures and ph (or acidity) of the water are correct. Animal husbandry is very important for an animals overall physical and even mental health.
If you’re interested in learning more about animal husbandry for specific animals. Research websites that specialize in them. A good one for reptiles is reproduces.com
Benjamin recommends the following next steps:
Hey Benjamin, it looks like that link is invalid. Is there another website you'd recommend?
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Isabel Dominguez
Student
101
Answers
Corning, California
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Hello Harman!
Animal husbandry is all about caring for and raising livestock such as cows, sheep, goats, and chickens. The goal is to produce things we need like meat, milk, wool, and eggs. This involves looking after the animals' health and nutrition, managing their breeding, and making sure they're well taken care of. All this helps to keep livestock operations running smoothly and sustainably.
If you're considering a career in animal husbandry, here's what you typically need:
Education: You'll need a degree in a field like animal science, veterinary science, agriculture, or something similar.
Experience: Hands-on experience with livestock is crucial. This could be through internships, working on a farm, or apprenticeships.
Skills: It's important to understand animal behavior, nutrition, breeding, and health care. You'll also need to be good at observing and solving problems.
Certifications: Depending on the job, having certifications in areas such as animal welfare or breeding could be a plus.
Animal husbandry is all about caring for and raising livestock such as cows, sheep, goats, and chickens. The goal is to produce things we need like meat, milk, wool, and eggs. This involves looking after the animals' health and nutrition, managing their breeding, and making sure they're well taken care of. All this helps to keep livestock operations running smoothly and sustainably.
If you're considering a career in animal husbandry, here's what you typically need:
Education: You'll need a degree in a field like animal science, veterinary science, agriculture, or something similar.
Experience: Hands-on experience with livestock is crucial. This could be through internships, working on a farm, or apprenticeships.
Skills: It's important to understand animal behavior, nutrition, breeding, and health care. You'll also need to be good at observing and solving problems.
Certifications: Depending on the job, having certifications in areas such as animal welfare or breeding could be a plus.
Sasha Joogoolsingh
Human Resources
50
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Sasha’s Answer
Hello Harman,
The field of Animal Husbandry is a rewarding and significant career path that focuses on enhancing the traits of animals through selective breeding, while simultaneously minimizing less favorable ones. This profession demands a solid understanding of animal genetics, which can be acquired either through formal education or hands-on experience in the field. As an animal husbandry professional, you could work with a variety of animals to advance the genetics of a population through strategic breeding. This role is vital for farmers and other professionals who depend on the productivity or vitality of animals for their livelihood.
Embarking on a Career in Animal Husbandry:
In this role, you'll have the important task of selecting animals for breeding that will exhibit the traits your clients desire. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these desired traits could range from sheep that yield denser wool to cows that generate more milk. Your work may encompass a broad spectrum of animals, from farm animals like chickens, goats, and cattle, to domestic animals such as cats, dogs, and pet birds.
To maximize your breeding success, it's crucial to comprehend the physiology of the animals you're breeding, which involves meticulous monitoring and analysis. You may employ artificial insemination techniques, particularly with high-value or large animals like horses. Your role in animal husbandry could involve a blend of outdoor and laboratory-based tasks, and may necessitate travel to clients' farms.
High School Preparation:
High school students interested in this field will benefit from taking as many agriculture and science courses as possible. Additionally, classes in mathematics, business, communications, chemistry, and mechanics can provide valuable preparation.
Further Education/ Training:
Typically, animal breeders and technicians need a minimum of nine months to two years of technical school training or a college diploma. Numerous colleges offer two- and four-year programs in animal science or animal husbandry where you can gain more knowledge, skills, and specialized training. In addition to the scientific aspects of animal breeding, students also take business classes to understand the economic perspective of the field. As technology becomes increasingly prevalent in breeding livestock and domesticated nonfarm animals, a bachelor's degree is becoming more crucial for success. Master's and doctoral degrees are beneficial for highly specialized fields and careers that necessitate advanced genetic planning. These higher degrees are mandatory for those aspiring to teach in the field, and all current cloning work is performed by individuals with doctorates.
Regardless of whether you're trained through experience, academic institutions, or both, new recruits at major breeding companies typically undergo some form of training program.
Continued Education or Training:
The American Society of Animal Science, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, and the National Association of Animal Breeders offer continuing education opportunities. Reach out to these organizations for more details.
Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements:
1. Certification or Licensing
2. While certification is not mandatory, most major companies offer certification programs that can boost earnings and opportunities.
Gaining Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits:
Experience in the field can be gained by volunteering or interning with animals, or by participating in college "learn-and-earn" programs that offer both classroom training and hands-on work experience.
Animal breeders and technicians should possess a deep love, empathy, and respect for animals. Patience and compassion are key, along with a comprehensive understanding of the needs and habits of the animals in your care. A keen interest in reproductive science, genetics, and animal physiology is also essential. Effective communication with agricultural scientists, farmers, and other animal owners and caretakers is crucial.
I hope this information is helpful. Wishing you the best of luck on your journey!
The field of Animal Husbandry is a rewarding and significant career path that focuses on enhancing the traits of animals through selective breeding, while simultaneously minimizing less favorable ones. This profession demands a solid understanding of animal genetics, which can be acquired either through formal education or hands-on experience in the field. As an animal husbandry professional, you could work with a variety of animals to advance the genetics of a population through strategic breeding. This role is vital for farmers and other professionals who depend on the productivity or vitality of animals for their livelihood.
Embarking on a Career in Animal Husbandry:
In this role, you'll have the important task of selecting animals for breeding that will exhibit the traits your clients desire. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these desired traits could range from sheep that yield denser wool to cows that generate more milk. Your work may encompass a broad spectrum of animals, from farm animals like chickens, goats, and cattle, to domestic animals such as cats, dogs, and pet birds.
To maximize your breeding success, it's crucial to comprehend the physiology of the animals you're breeding, which involves meticulous monitoring and analysis. You may employ artificial insemination techniques, particularly with high-value or large animals like horses. Your role in animal husbandry could involve a blend of outdoor and laboratory-based tasks, and may necessitate travel to clients' farms.
High School Preparation:
High school students interested in this field will benefit from taking as many agriculture and science courses as possible. Additionally, classes in mathematics, business, communications, chemistry, and mechanics can provide valuable preparation.
Further Education/ Training:
Typically, animal breeders and technicians need a minimum of nine months to two years of technical school training or a college diploma. Numerous colleges offer two- and four-year programs in animal science or animal husbandry where you can gain more knowledge, skills, and specialized training. In addition to the scientific aspects of animal breeding, students also take business classes to understand the economic perspective of the field. As technology becomes increasingly prevalent in breeding livestock and domesticated nonfarm animals, a bachelor's degree is becoming more crucial for success. Master's and doctoral degrees are beneficial for highly specialized fields and careers that necessitate advanced genetic planning. These higher degrees are mandatory for those aspiring to teach in the field, and all current cloning work is performed by individuals with doctorates.
Regardless of whether you're trained through experience, academic institutions, or both, new recruits at major breeding companies typically undergo some form of training program.
Continued Education or Training:
The American Society of Animal Science, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, and the National Association of Animal Breeders offer continuing education opportunities. Reach out to these organizations for more details.
Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements:
1. Certification or Licensing
2. While certification is not mandatory, most major companies offer certification programs that can boost earnings and opportunities.
Gaining Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits:
Experience in the field can be gained by volunteering or interning with animals, or by participating in college "learn-and-earn" programs that offer both classroom training and hands-on work experience.
Animal breeders and technicians should possess a deep love, empathy, and respect for animals. Patience and compassion are key, along with a comprehensive understanding of the needs and habits of the animals in your care. A keen interest in reproductive science, genetics, and animal physiology is also essential. Effective communication with agricultural scientists, farmers, and other animal owners and caretakers is crucial.
I hope this information is helpful. Wishing you the best of luck on your journey!
Lesley Massias
Veterinarian
5
Answers
Davie, Florida
Updated
Lesley’s Answer
If you're considering a career in animal husbandry, the qualifications you'll need can vary based on the specific job and location. But here's a general idea:
Education Requirements:
1. **High School Diploma or Equivalent:** This is the basic requirement for most starting positions.
2. **Certificate/Diploma Programs:** Many trade schools and local colleges offer programs in areas like animal science, farming, or vet tech studies.
3. **Bachelor's Degree:** For higher-level jobs, a degree in animal science, farming, biology, or a similar field is often needed. You might study topics like genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and business management.
4. **Advanced Degrees:** If you're aiming for a specialized or research role, you might need a master's or doctoral degree.
Certifications:
1. **Certified Animal Scientist (CAS):** This is a certification provided by the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS).
2. **Livestock Management Certification:** Various groups offer certifications in specific areas such as dairy, chicken, or beef cattle management.
3. **Veterinary Technician Certification:** This is for those who work closely with animal health care.
Skills and Experience:
1. **Hands-On Experience:** Real-world experience through internships, apprenticeships, or work placements is highly prized.
2. **Knowledge of Animal Care:** You'll need to understand how to feed, breed, and care for animals' health.
3. **Technical Skills:** You should be able to use farm equipment and technology.
4. **Management Skills:** If you're running your own operation, you'll need business management, budgeting, and record-keeping skills.
5. **Soft Skills:** Good communication, problem-solving, and physical stamina are also important.
Continuing Education:
- It's important to keep your skills and knowledge fresh through workshops, courses, and seminars. This helps you stay up-to-date with the latest best practices and tech advances in the field.
Education Requirements:
1. **High School Diploma or Equivalent:** This is the basic requirement for most starting positions.
2. **Certificate/Diploma Programs:** Many trade schools and local colleges offer programs in areas like animal science, farming, or vet tech studies.
3. **Bachelor's Degree:** For higher-level jobs, a degree in animal science, farming, biology, or a similar field is often needed. You might study topics like genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and business management.
4. **Advanced Degrees:** If you're aiming for a specialized or research role, you might need a master's or doctoral degree.
Certifications:
1. **Certified Animal Scientist (CAS):** This is a certification provided by the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS).
2. **Livestock Management Certification:** Various groups offer certifications in specific areas such as dairy, chicken, or beef cattle management.
3. **Veterinary Technician Certification:** This is for those who work closely with animal health care.
Skills and Experience:
1. **Hands-On Experience:** Real-world experience through internships, apprenticeships, or work placements is highly prized.
2. **Knowledge of Animal Care:** You'll need to understand how to feed, breed, and care for animals' health.
3. **Technical Skills:** You should be able to use farm equipment and technology.
4. **Management Skills:** If you're running your own operation, you'll need business management, budgeting, and record-keeping skills.
5. **Soft Skills:** Good communication, problem-solving, and physical stamina are also important.
Continuing Education:
- It's important to keep your skills and knowledge fresh through workshops, courses, and seminars. This helps you stay up-to-date with the latest best practices and tech advances in the field.