How I did it: I got in as a veterinary kennel assistant on the ground floor. For most animal care positions you must be willing to start at the bottom.  I showed great work ethic: I arrived on time, I took extra shifts, I worked hard with honesty and integrity. Twenty years later I manage at a veterinary clinic, striving to strengthen the human-animal bond. I have jumped at multiple volunteer opportunities along the way: nurse shark reproduction research at an aquarium, zoo docent at a progressive zoological park, wildlife rehab at local sanctuary, and more. Along the way I got a degree in zoology and animal behavior which serves me daily. Never stop learning and seeking to educate yourself.

Lessons & tips:

1. Realize that even if you work with animals you will still work with PEOPLE. I took public speaking in college, but wish I had taken interpersonal communication as well. Trust me, you will need it.
2. You will likely be working with the general public. Attend meetings or seminars on gold star customer service. Read books on excellent customer service.
3. You will be doing a lot of cleaning. It can be very physical. Keep in shape and don't be afraid of getting dirty.
4. Don't wait for them to train you. If you are not taking biology or zoology courses, then go to the library and start at the basics, biology, and work you way up to the animals of your interest. There are excellent scientific websites available online.
5. Continue to educate yourself. Never stop learning. Ask a lot of questions.
6. Take volunteer opportunites.

Resources:

1. College
2. Internet
3. Continuing education through conferences and seminars
4. Volunteer opportunites

Dec 02, 2008, 08:44PM PST | 0 comments | 6 cheers