Dogs once existed as wild creatures; roaming in packs and surviving on their instincts. Humans domesticated them over 14,000 years ago – since then they have become our companions and we have become closely bonded with them. Dogs are highly social animals and many cultures consider them to be important members of the family and regard them to be man’s best friend. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of dogs owned as pets; now 22 % of the population in Britain have at least one dog in their household.
Dogs are intelligent and they require both mental and physical stimulation, for which, they are entirely dependent on humans. Being highly sociable, intelligent and adaptable has enabled dogs to learn to fulfill many roles that are extremely useful to society. For example, many are trained as working dogs of which there are several types including: assistance dogs, law enforcement dogs, rescue dogs, therapy dogs, herding dogs, guard dogs, detection dogs and war dogs. There are many different careers and jobs available for those wishing to work with dogs.
To enjoy a career working with dogs, it is important that you understand their physical and emotional needs; it goes without saying that it is crucial that you are compassionate and genuinely interested in their welfare.
Working with dogs is usually grubby and can involve tough physical outdoor work; for this sort of career, you must enjoy being outdoors in all types of weather. Dogs need care twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week and therefore, the working hours are unpredictable and varied – you will probably be required to work at weekends and bank holidays. You will need to be physically fit, healthy, hard working, have plenty of stamina and enjoy exercise. Some careers with dogs, such as working in a boarding kennel, may require you to live on site and to have a driving license.
For most careers working with dogs, it is recommended that you have an NVQs/SVQs in Animal Care at levels 1 and/or 2 as a minimum education requirement. These are available through the College of Animal Welfare, some animal charities and through various other colleges around the country. You may be able to develop your career either by gaining experience and working towards NVQ/SVQ Level 3 in Animal Care, or by studying part-time for qualifications such as the EDEXCEL BTEC National Certificate/Diploma in Animal Management (Care) and the EDEXCEL BTEC National Award in Animal Management (Kennel and Cattery Management). Apprenticeships may be available for those under the age of 24. In England these are currently Apprenticeships (level 2) and Advanced Apprenticeships (level 3).
Having hands-on experience of being around dogs will help you to be able to recognise when dogs are unwell or unhappy. You will need to be able to pay particular attention to detail and to health and safety requirements. Unfortunately, the risk of being bitten exists in all careers with dogs. Remember, if you are bitten, it is always your fault and not the dog’s – it is never acceptable to hit or shout at a dog. To lessen your chances of being bitten, it is important to ensure that you have sufficient training and that you feel confident and enjoy being around dogs.
If you haven’t spent time working with or caring for dogs, it is worthwhile working as a volunteer before embarking on this type of career. Many animal charities run volunteer programmes, several offer work experience placements and some even offer NVQ training courses. All of these opportunities provide excellent ways to gain experience and build up your confidence for working around dogs.
For more information, visit http://www.animal-job.co.uk/careerswithdogs.html to download the ebook guide with information about the following careers working with dogs: Kennel Assistant, Kennel Manager, Dog Home Boarder, Dog Trainer, Dog Handler (including Fire service, Search and Rescue, Customs & Excise, Army, Police & Private security), Assistance Dog Trainer, Dog Behaviourist, Dog Warden, Dog Groomer, Dog Walker, Dog Day Care Business.
http://www.animal-job.co.uk/careerswithdogs.html
Author: Abigail Smith
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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