Deciding to pursue a career working with animals can be a life-changing decision. Whether you are already working in a different field and want to make a change, or are just starting out in your career, making the transition to working with animals can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice.
Below are seven steps to take if you are considering a career change to work with animals:
#1—Identify your interests and skills.
The first step in making a change in your career is to identify your interests and skills. This will help you determine what type of job working with animals would be a good fit for you. Do you enjoy working with animals in a hands-on capacity, or do you prefer to work in a more technical role? Are you comfortable working with a specific type of animal, such as dogs or cats, or do you have a broader interest in wildlife? By identifying your interests and skills, you can narrow down your job search to find the right fit for you.
#2—Research the animal care industry.
Before making a career change, it is important to research the animal care industry. This will help you understand the job requirements, necessary qualifications, and potential career paths. The animal care industry is vast and includes a range of jobs, from veterinary care to animal welfare advocacy. By researching the industry, you can get a better sense of where your skills and interests might fit in.
#3—Gain experience.
If you are considering a career working with animals, gaining experience in the field can be a valuable asset. Volunteer at a local animal shelter, participate in wildlife conservation projects, or work as an animal caregiver. This will not only give you practical experience, but also help you build your network and gain insights into the industry.
#4—Get the necessary education and training.
Depending on the type of job you are interested in, you may need to obtain additional education and training. For example, to become a veterinarian, you will need to complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Other jobs may require certification or specialized training. It is important to research the necessary education and training requirements for the job you are interested in and plan accordingly.
#5—Update your resume and cover letter.
When applying for jobs in the animal care industry, it is important to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight any relevant experience or skills you have gained through volunteering or education. Be sure to include any experience working with animals, such as pet-sitting or dog walking.
#6—Network.
Networking is an important aspect of any job search, and can be especially valuable when transitioning to a new career. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with others in the animal care industry through social media. Building relationships with others in the industry can help you learn about job opportunities and gain insights into the industry.
#7—Stay motivated and persistent.
Transitioning to a career working with animals may not happen overnight, and may require persistence and dedication. Keep your goals in mind, stay motivated, and continue to gain experience and education in the field. By staying persistent, you can achieve your career goals and make a positive impact in the lives of animals.
Making a change in your career to work with animals can be a challenging but rewarding decision. By identifying your interests and skills, researching the industry, gaining experience, getting the necessary education and training, updating your resume and cover letter, networking, and staying motivated, you can successfully make the transition to a career working with animals.
Make a change with Vetevate
If you are considering a change in your career to work with animals, the Vetevate website can be a valuable resource in helping you find job opportunities, network with others in the industry, and gain insights into the animal care industry.
Below are six ways in which the Vetevate website can help you make a change in your career and pursue jobs working with animals:
#1—Job search
The Vetevate website provides a comprehensive job board that lists job opportunities in various areas of the animal care industry. Whether you are interested in veterinary care, wildlife conservation, or animal welfare advocacy, the website can help you find relevant job postings in your area. You can search for jobs by location, type of job, or keywords related to your skills and interests.
#2—Career advice
The Vetevate website also provides career advice articles and resources that can help you learn more about the animal care industry and prepare for a career working with animals. These articles cover topics such as job search strategies, resume writing tips, and career paths in the animal care industry. By reading these articles, you can gain valuable insights into the industry and learn how to effectively navigate the job search process.
#3—Networking
The Vetevate website also provides networking opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing careers in the animal care industry. The website has a community section where you can connect with other professionals in the industry, share your experiences, and ask for advice. This community can help you build relationships with others in the industry, learn about job opportunities, and gain insights into the industry.
#4—Education and training
If you are interested in pursuing a career in the animal care industry but need additional education or training, the Vetevate website can help you find relevant programs and courses. The website lists educational programs in various areas of the animal care industry, including veterinary medicine, animal behavior, and wildlife conservation. By finding and enrolling in these programs, you can gain the necessary skills and qualifications to pursue a career working with animals.
#5—Volunteer opportunities
The Vetevate website also provides information on volunteer opportunities in the animal care industry. Volunteering can be a valuable way to gain experience and network with others in the industry. The website lists volunteer opportunities at animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and other organizations that work with animals. By volunteering at these organizations, you can gain practical experience working with animals and build your resume.
#6—Industry news and trends
Finally, the Vetevate website provides news and updates on the animal care industry. By staying informed about industry news and trends, you can gain insights into the current state of the industry and learn about new job opportunities or emerging career paths. The website also provides information on animal welfare issues, which can help you stay up-to-date on ethical concerns in the industry.
The Vetevate website can be a valuable resource for individuals interested in making a change in their career to work with animals. By using the website’s job board, career advice articles, networking opportunities, education and training resources, volunteer opportunities, and industry news and trends, you can effectively navigate the job search process and pursue a fulfilling career working with animals.
