How can I get a part-time job working with animals? Do I need qualifications?

Question

I'm just after doing my Leaving Certificate, and I've deferred my place at college for one year. I really love animals and I'd love to spend my year working with them. I've rang all my local pet shops, dog boarding kennels and even veterinary clinics, but none of them have any job vacancies for me. I also rang the dog warden, willing to volunteer for experience but he said something about needing insurance as it's a dangerous job. Please help, I want to get a job as soon as possible!

Answer 1

You don't say were you live, i know the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay in North Wales are always asking for volunteers.

Answer 2

go to www.spca.org and look up your state and city and they will list shelters. You can call and see if they have opportunities. They are always looking :)

Answer 3

You could always try volunteering at a shelter first and then use that on your resume (cv) to get a foot in the door somewhere else.  I had the same problem, finding that it's a hard field to get into without any experience or schooling behind you.  I started volunteering at a humane society first and then used that in my cover letter, being honest and explaining that even though I had no formal training, I had loved animals all my life and would really like to get in to the field. Just be honest and persistant.  Hope that helps!

Answer 4

There's an animal rescue centre near me where one of my freinds worked when we were still at school. Her job was basically just cleaning out their cages, feeding them and taking the dogs for walks.

There must be some RSPCA near you?

Answer 5

ring RSPCA for help

Answer 6

jobs here in the US working with pets like in veterinary offices are the same as anywhere else, few and filled.  Most of the jobs working with pets (as in the kennels) is a rough and dirty job (they will probably tell you in a nice way that the job is not for the educated).  Unless your major in college will be working with animals then you probably won't get a job there.  The jobs there that would be available to you would be volunteer (unpaid).  The only other kinds of jobs I would think would be available would be at ranger stations at parks but I assume you'd have to apply way in advance and your name be picked from thousands of others.  Why not start a dog walking service, or a house sitting service (wherein you would be watching someone's pet), and, have your own insurance coverage before doing it, or before applying for any job. You'll need good references as well.

Answer 7

Perhaps there is a rancher in your area that needs some assistance.

Answer 8

Depends on where you live.  I'd keep trying.  If you have an emergency animal hospital in your city, you could work as a receptionist.  No real animal experience is needed to do that.

Answer 9

Try your local animal shelter.

Answer 10

You could advertise yourself for dog walker etc in the local newspaper. There are lots of older or business people that simply dont have the time.

Good luck