11 Essential Skills you need to Work with Dogs Dog Professions & Careers: Groomer, Handler, Walker, Sitter Top 25 Careers for Dog Lovers Dog Workday and Friendly Companies Careers With Dogs Careers in Dogs Best Dog Jobs K9 Military and Police Working Dogs Medicine Survivour Dog Careers Service Dog Types Dogs in the Office Dog Workday Dog Work
TOP 25 CAREERS FOR DOG LOVERS This article is proudly presented by WWW.WOWPOOCH.COM and Sandra S. Ashley
If you have a passion and love for dogs, there are actually many careers for dog lovers out there that you can put this love towards. Everyone wants a career doing what they love for many years. These jobs even range from a variety of mediums and requirements, some easier to get into than others. However, each one of these careers allows you to be closer to what you love: dogs! There are many different careers that you could jump into for dog lovers. From entry to jobs that require some education, there are many opportunities you could start working towards.
1. Photograph Dogs If you have a good camera or phone, and love taking pictures in general, this career is a great option for you. You get to take pictures of many dogs for their owners, and you can even keep these to have an album of pups all your own. Another great twist to this is you are able to work for shelters. By taking pictures of shelter pups, you in turn help them have higher chances to get their forever home.
2. Dog Behaviorist If you have a knack for knowing dog behaviors and what the dog needs, becoming a dog behaviorist is for you. You work with dogs that are displaying behaviors their owners are finding troublesome. From here you are able to help the dog out by explaining to their owners exactly why the dog is acting a certain way. In the end, everyone is happier by the work you can do as a behaviorist.
3. Dog Groomer If you are fascinated with the idea of grooming posh dogs as I am, being a groomer is for you. As a groomer, you can style every pooch and pup, making them stylish as they leave your business. You are also able to help dogs manage their hair when it gets in their eyes or matted. Today, groomers are in high demand in bigger cities too.
4. Train Service Dogs As a service dog trainer, you are picking and training the best of the best for a very deserving individual. You will be working personally with the dog for upwards of a few months, teaching them specific tasks needed for their job. You will be setting this dog up for a loving home, and helping another person by giving them a helping paw for many years to come.
5. Become A Veterinarian I know when I was growing up with a strong love for animals, I always wanted to be a veterinarian. If you were no different, this childhood dream is very achievable. You will be helping many animals including dogs. From mending wounds, bringing new lives into the world, or saving lives, you will always be helping animals in this career. It is a very rewarding career all in all, though it does take a bit of education and experience to get established.
6. Fashion Clothes For Dogs If you have always had a knack for stitching and sewing up different things, being a clothing designer for dogs could be a thing for you. Personally, I have always loved seeing little pups rocking such adorable clothing year round. There is definitely a market for this career, and you can easily make a name for yourself online. With sites like Etsy or even Amazon, you can sell your work all over the world. You may even receive tons of pics of pups wearing your brand. How awesome is that?
7. Make Nutritional Meals For Dogs A chef for dogs isn't simply making food for any dog and getting paid by just their loves and wagging tails. Being a chef for a furry client involves a lot of knowledge in the nutrition required for them. You are also able to take this knowledge and help owners understand what should go into their pup's food. It will improve their dog's diet and wellbeing in the long run. Plus you get to know for sure, you helped that dog have a healthier diet compared to any store bought brand.
8. Plan Parties For Dogs Planning parties for dogs is an actually career even if it sounds a little funny. There are some dog owners with expendable cash that are willing to through a full out bash for their pup's birthday. You will be picking out decor, caterers, invitations, and anything the owner wants. You are meant to make the dog you are planning around feel like an absolute star. It may seem over the top, but you get to see the happy dogs having a blast with everything you picked out.
9. Breed Dogs Breeding dogs can actually become a really established career as long as you follow the laws in place for animal breeding. The last thing you want to do as a dog lover is be breeding so many pups, it is hard to keep up. Though on the other side, breeding is very rewarding even if it takes time. You get to spend the first eight weeks with the puppies and have that high energy around 24/7. You also get to ensure these puppies are taken care of and head off to a good home at the end of the 8 weeks.
10. Dog Walker Dog walking has recently become a fit career for many people. It is no longer seen as a side job you do for a few bucks here and there. You could easily make just as much as any other entry job while doing what you love, hanging out with dogs! If you don't know where to get started, there are now apps such as Wag and Rover you could contract under for clients. This takes out the waiting for flyers to be noticed and brings jobs to your fingertips. You will be getting a workout with the pup, leaving both benefiting from the experience. Not to mention the many pics you can capture along the way. I personally was a dog walker for quite a while, and it is quite a fun experience.
11. Board And Babysit Dogs Boarding and babysitting dogs has also become a legitimate career for people just as dog walking has. You get to keep the dog at your place or the client's for a specified time. The care included is watching over the dog, feeding them, cleaning up after them, and giving them tons of love as their owner is away. You are there to keep the dog happy, getting tons of love in turn. Who wouldn't want to cuddle up with a dog and get all the love for just watching them for a few days?
12. Animal Rights Lawyer Being an animal rights lawyer means helping animals that do not have a voice. You will be bringing their abusers to justice and even put them behind bars. Your work will be very important to fight against the abuse and neglect of many animals. This career will require some education in law and you will be seeing a lot of tear jerking instances. However, the reward comes from knowing the animal is now in a much better environment thanks to you.
13. Dog Show Handler Dog show handlers are hired by owners of show dogs to walk their pups around the ring to be judged. Working as one will let you be around the fanciest pups of today with the only task being is to walk them professionally. To get a ton of information on just how to become a registered handler, you could check out the registered handler program of the AKC.
14. Doggy Spa Owner Being a doggy spa owner is basically bringing pampering services to the dogs living a luxury life. Much of it includes care we would want to have done at a spa; massages, grooming, mani/pedis, and more. Your job would be is running the establishment and making sure every pup is as happy as can be and relaxed as they leave your business. Another bonus you could do with a doggy spa is to add kennels and create a sanctuary any posh dog would love to stay at.
15. Dog Artist If you adore drawing or painting, and even consider animals one of your specialties, you could easily become an artist for dog owners. You will be able to immortalize someone's dog in your style for the owner to cherish for years to pass. Not only that, the traffic created from animal posts on social media will bring plenty of light to your amazing work. A sweet bonus to this is, you can work at home at your own hours and pace. How cool is that.
16. Dog Massage Therapist Petting a dog is one of the best experiences am I right? Well, as a dog massage therapist, you will be able to pet and massage many aching pups. By doing this, you are also helping them relax and feel a lot better than before they came to you. This career does require some education for canine anatomy so you can give the best experience to your pooch client though. However, helping a dog that is in pain is very rewarding in and of itself.
17. Dog Yoga Instructor Believe it or not, being a dog yoga instructor is very much a real job. In this career you are helping give dogs a gentle and light exercise or stretch session. For dogs with aching joints, I can really see the benefit of this. Your job will also include helping the owner know how to exercise their pup like this at home. Even though it may sound like an odd concept, I can definitely see this taking off within the year.
18. Work For BARK BARK is a website for dog lovers and family alike. Working for them will be a fantastic experience with pups and dog lovers almost all the time. They have many available jobs you could jump into as well! While they are based in new york, they have positions such as tech, marketing, writers, and more. It would not be hard to find a place in this massive team of dog lovers.
19. Doggy Day Care Worker A doggy day care is always a vibrant environment filled with happy pups playing and chilling the day away waiting for their owners. As a worker there, you will be able to play with them and take care of them through the entire day. I mean who wouldn't want to hang out with a pack of excited pups all day? The only possible downside is the inevitable cleaning of the waste they leave behind. But the kisses make it all worth it.
20. Test Pet Products The market for pet products is massive, with families spending hundreds on their pets year round. And with such a large market, everything needs to be tested before it can be put out for the public. This is where you come in. As a product tester, you will be working to find any faults in design or possible injury that could occur from anything. You would be one of the standing forces keeping dogs safe from faulty toys or beyond. A bonus to this job is that you could even come up with some products you see a need for.
21. Pet Communicator If you have an uncanny ability to understand what an animal needs or wants to convey, this is the job for you. There is a large market for people you can understand what an animal is in need of believe it or not. It may sound silly, but some people are very much in tune with animals that they could do this. As a pet communicator, you will be helping out owners and pets alike for a much better life ahead. A great benefit to this is you also get to know the animal on a more personal level.
22. Public Service Dog Handler Similar to training a service dog, a public handler gets to take them out into the world.You will be able to prepare them for all the distractions going on so they may be able to avoid them during their job with their future owner. This job will always have plenty of one on one time with the service dog.
23. Therapy Dog Handler When handling a therapy dog, you will get to take them where they are needed most. Such therapy dogs that need handlers are those that go to nursing homes to bring some joy to the elderly. Not only do you get to take a sweet dog around places, you also get to see the joy they bring to those they are comforting. It's a win win situation if you ask me.
24. Rescue Worker Being a rescue worker is tough work, but you will be the one to care for the pooches as they come in as well as ensuring they are heading off to a good home in the end. Plus if you are a dog lover like me, you can bring these poor dogs some joy daily by playing with them or even taking them on walks. I honestly think the best part to this job is the part of finding them a forever home.
25. Veterinary Technician Often just called vet tech, you get to work personally under the head vet at the clinic. This includes doing tasks such as preparing animals for surgery, doing check-ups, giving shots, or just checking clients in. If you are scared of performing surgery or not sure if you want to be the one to break news to clients, being a vet tech gives you the benefits of being a vet without the heartache or difficult surgeries.
11 ESSENTIAL SKILLS YOU NEED TO WORK WITH DOGS This article is proudly presented by WWW.THEBALANCE CARREERS.COM and Mary Hope Kramer
Many different career paths exist for people who want to work with dogs. Popular jobs include: dog trainer, dog groomer, veterinarian, breeder, K-9 police officer, kennel manager, pet sitter, dog walker, dog show judge, and many more. If you love dogs, are willing to physically exert yourself in their care, and enjoy the outdoors, this career path might be perfect for you.
What Skills Do You Need for Dog Jobs? Several key skills all dog industry professionals should possess include the ability to handle and train dogs, the ability to interact with the animal to recognize behavioral signals and needs, and have knowledge of the animal's grooming and healthcare needs. Additionally, jobs working with dogs require you to have certain personality traits including patience, thoughtfulness, conscientiousness, and the ability to interact and communicate professionally with other dog industry professionals and dog owners. You need to have an interest in ongoing education to understand the characteristics and needs of the various dog breeds. In some dog jobs, you need to pursue special certifications and advanced education about dogs and their care. In all jobs working with dogs, you need to stay up to date on industry knowledge and standards, healthcare advances, and have advanced knowledge about breakthroughs in dog training and care.
Specific Skills Necessary to Work With Dogs These are the most critical skills and abilities for people who hope to work with dogs professionally.
Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills All canine professionals should be comfortable working with dogs in a hands-on capacity. Their skill set should include the following.
Basic Obedience
Positive Reinforcement Techniques
Reward Systems
Operant Conditioning Training Techniques
Handling Dogs With Clicker Training
Voice Commands
Maintains High Expectations
Ability to Recognize Behavioral Signals
Persuasiveness
Handle Stressful Situations Well
Ability to Recognize Behavioral Signals The body language of a dog can help a handler anticipate changes in its behavior. Canine handlers must pay careful attention to a dog's ears, teeth, posture, and general expression. The dog's behavior can indicate signs of aggression, fear, distraction, or happiness.
Non-Verbal Communication Skills
Understanding Body Language
Ability to Observe a Dog's Behavior and Understand Signs
Careful Attention to Detail
Nurturing
Knowledge of Proper Grooming Techniques Grooming can be a critical part of canine care, particularly for long-haired breeds. All dog handlers should be able to handle the basics such as removing mats, brushing out long hair, trimming nails, and cleaning ears. The ability to use clippers and style dogs into breed-specific cuts is a plus for those in the dog show industry, and it is mandatory for those working within the grooming industry. Proper grooming is essential to maintain canine health, and the close observation of the dog during the grooming process can help the handler detect developing health issues at an early stage.
Removing Mats
Brushing Out Long Hair
Trimming Nails
Cleaning Ears
Use Clippers and Style Dogs Into Breed-Specific Cuts
Spot Developing Health Issues
Ability to Recognize Common Health Problems Dog handlers should have an understanding of basic canine health issues, particularly those that are frequently observed in the breeds with which they work. It is also important that dog handlers note subtle changes in each dog's behavior or eating habits that could indicate a developing problem. Individuals working with dogs should also be able to provide basic care such as cleaning a wound, removing fleas and ticks, and giving oral medications. Those working specifically in canine health career paths - such as veterinary technician roles, should be able to give injections, collect blood or other body fluid samples, and perform more advanced medical treatments.
Understand Basic Canine Health Issues
Note Subtle Changes in a Dog's Behavior
Note Subtle Changes in a Dog's Eating Patterns
How to Clean a Wound
Removing Fleas and Ticks
Giving Oral Medication
Perform Basic, and Depending on the Job
Advanced Medical Treatments
Knowledge of Canine Anatomy and Breed Standards Canine professionals should have a basic knowledge of canine anatomy as well as a general understanding of the qualities that are valued in each breed with which they work. This is particularly important for dog show judges, dog show handlers, breeders, and trainers. Basic Knowledge of the Anatomy of Dogs, Fundamental Understanding of the Qualities Desired in Each Breed
Communicating With Animal Professionals and Owners All canine handlers should have the ability to communicate clearly with other animal professionals that they may work with (such as veterinarians, groomers, trainers, and breeders) to ensure that the needs of the dogs are met at all times.
Clear Verbal Communication Skills
Non-Verbal Communication Skills
Body Language Skills
Ability to Listen Carefully and Understand
Leadership Skills
Team Player
The Desire to Pursue Relevant Certifications Several canine related professions offer certification programs that can greatly enhance a candidate's skill set and knowledge. If these certifications are relevant and appropriate to a specific career path, they should always be considered. There are many such certification programs for dog groomers, dog trainers, behaviorists, canine massage therapists, and various pet caregiver career paths. Achievement of these certifications can enhance a candidate's professional credentials and can also increase their earning potential.
Openness to Learn and Pursue Professional Growth
Obtain Relevant Certifications to Work in Jobs With Dogs
Certifications Enhance Professional Reputation
Certifications Ensure the Confidence of Owners and Industry Professionals
Practice Patience and Exhibit Desirable Personality Traits Patience is perhaps the most important quality for someone who wants to work with dogs professionally. Most canine careers require a great deal of patience, as it can take a significant amount of time to get a dog to exhibit the behaviors that the handler desires. Of course, patience is an asset for those working with animals in any capacity, not just those working in jobs with dogs.
A Passion for Dogs and Respect for Animals
Ability to Practice Patience
Ability to Demonstrate Consistency
Ability to Show Persistence
Ability to Demonstrate Commitment
Ability to Demonstrate Empathy
Ability to Demonstrate Confidence to Attract Clientele
Do you have a love for dogs? If so, there are many choices available to you that will allow you to combine a career with the love you feel for these wonderful animals!
Some jobs pay well and some don't, and many can be performed on a part-time basis... Just make your choose and be 100% satisfied with a happy pooch workday living.
PROFESSIONS OF CARING THE PUREBREED DOGS This article is proudly presented by WWW.DOGICA.COM
Handler
To understand what a handler does, you should understand what a dog show is and how it works. The sport of conformation, or dog showing, is a competition to determine which dog conforms the best to its breed standard. A breed standard is a written set of requirements that describe how a dog of that breed should look and behave. Only registered purebred dogs are allowed to compete in dog shows. Purebred dogs are dogs whose parents and ancestors are of the same breed.
Dogs from the same breed compete against each other to become Best of Breed, which is the dog that best meets the requirements of its breed standard on that day of competition. Some dog shows stop here. These are called specialty dog shows. All-breed and group dog shows go further. Dogs that win Best of Breed go on to compete for Best in Group. The American Kennel Club divides the more than 150 breeds it registers into seven groups. The seven winners of Best in Group then go on to compete for Best in Show.
At dog shows, the competition takes place in show rings. The show ring is the physical space where the dogs are shown and judged. A handler accompanies a dog into the ring and shows the dog to the judge by standing the dog for examination and moving around the ring with the dog. It may seem simple, but a handler's job is not as easy as it seems! The skill of handling a dog to show off its best qualities, while at same time not getting in the way of the judge's ability to observe the dog, is one that requires years to master. Professional handling can be a full-time job.
Professional handlers are paid to handle other people's dogs at shows. One of the most popular reasons to hire a professional handler is to help a dog receive the title of Champion. To become a Champion, a dog needs a certain number of points. Dogs receive points based on how well they do during the competition with other dogs of their same sex. This requires several trips to different dog shows. Once a dog receives its championship, the owner can "campaign," or compete with, the dog to accumulate more Bests of Breed, group wins and Bests in Show. All this requires time and travel, so many owners are happy to hire a professional handler to accomplish these things for them. Negotiating contracts between owners and the handler, filling out the necessary forms to participate in dog shows, and coordinating a travel schedule are also part of a handler's job.
In addition to showing, handlers spend their time preparing dogs for shows, which involves grooming and conditioning, with some training. Most professional handlers have assistants that do much of this preparation work. In fact, if becoming a professional handler interests you, consider becoming a handler's assistant. This is an excellent way to start acquiring the necessary hands-on experience and knowledge required of a professional handler. AKC Junior Showmanship is another way of getting hands-on experience. To participate, you must be between 10 and 18 years of age. In AKC Junior Showmanship, the handler is judged on how well the dog is handled in the show ring, not on the show quality of the dog.
Professional handlers usually charge their clients a per-dog per-show fee and travel expenses, with an additional fee to keep dogs in their kennel when they are not being shown. If the handler acts as an agent, negotiating potential breedings and related matters, he or she may also collect an additional fee. Even though the income potential may seem high, the expenses are substantial. Only after you have paid for travel expenses, maintaining your kennel, and salaries for your assistants, will you be able to draw your own salary.
To be happy as a professional handler, you will need a strong love for the sport of purebred dogs. You will also need to enjoy frequent travel. Strong interpersonal skills are a must, since you will deal with many different people, especially clients. You may not have much free time, but many of your social contacts in the dog show world have the potential to become good friends.
Judge
A judge at a dog show decides how well the dogs in the show ring match their breed standard. Even though the job of a judge may be simple to understand, judging dogs is no simple task. As with becoming a professional handler, becoming a dog show judge takes years of experience and in-depth knowledge of purebred dogs. Some dogs that enter the show ring may not be good specimens of the breed. However, most dogs that enter the show ring are good specimens, and it takes a very trained eye to notice all the details that make one dog better than the others.
If your goal is to judge, you will need to start learning as much as you can about purebred dogs. Often people start out with one or two breeds they are interested in. They own a dog or two of their favorite breed, and they learn all about the breed. They may enter the dog in shows and maybe even act as the dog's handler.
Some people may volunteer to become ring stewards. Ring stewards help the judge in the show ring with organizing the paperwork and ribbons. After acquiring lots of experience with the breed, perhaps they may ask to judge at their local kennel club's match show. A match show is like a dog show, except no points are given. It is held just for fun and experience. Once you are knowledgeable about your breed, you can consider applying to the American Kennel Club (AKC) to approve you as a judge for your breed. As you learn about other breeds, you can apply to the AKC for approval to judge additional breeds.
Making a living as a dog show judge is not really an immediate possibility for most people. As you slowly demonstrate your judging ability, more assignments may be given to you. Most people have another job for many years before they try to make a living from judging.
To give you a better idea of the experience you need before applying to become a new breed judge, here are some of the prerequisites: at least 10 years of involvement in the sport; breeding and raising at least four litters of one breed; and producing at least two breed champions from those litters.
What you can do now is go to dog shows. Compete in AKC Junior Showmanship. Join a local kennel club. Talk to breeders and consider getting a dog of your favorite breed. Learn as much as you can, and judging might be in your future!
Show Superintendent
Show superintendents perform the detail work involved in dog shows. Show superintendents are companies, even though some of the individuals are referred to as show superintendents, too. As the number of dog shows increases every year, so does the need for show superintendents.
Office staff and field staff divide the work of the show superintendent. The field staff are sometimes responsible for setting up and tearing down the ring equipment, which includes the partitions that form the rings, tables and chairs, as well as the boxes of materials prepared by the office staff. The office staff are responsible for producing the premium list and catalogs, as well as supplying the ribbons and trophies. Office staff also receive the entry fees that exhibitors send with their entry blanks from the premium list. The premium list is a booklet that includes the names of judges attending the show and the trophies offered, with a few entry blanks. The catalog includes information on the individual dogs entered, including the sire and dam (father and mother), date of birth, and registration number. The names of the breeders and owners of the dogs are also listed.
The local kennel club contracts the show super-intendent about a year in advance of the show. Show superintendents usually receive a standard fee plus an additional amount based on the number of dogs entered.
The best way to learn this business is to work for an established show superintendent. Only after several years of experience can you start your own business.
Professional Field Trialers
Professional field trialers train and handle dogs for field trials. Field trials offer practical demonstrations of a dog's ability to perform in the field the functions for which it was bred. Field events are open to pointing breeds, retrievers, spaniels, Beagles, Basset Hounds, and Dachshunds. Events vary according to breeds and the specific functions they were bred to perform, but in each case, dogs compete against each other for placements and points toward their championships.
To succeed at this profession, field trialers must know how to train dogs to compete. Getting started as a field trialer requires working for an established trainer and learning the skills proficiently. Professional field trialers keep dogs for years in order to train them. The salary depends on how successful a field trialer is, which is largely determined by the success of the dogs in events. Some of the most successful field trialers who train and handle 20 to 30 dogs at a time, can earn a healthy income.
AKC Staff
Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club (AKC) is the principal purebred dog registry in the United States. It is also the leading regulatory agency for dog shows and performance events. The AKC has more than 500 employees.
To fulfill the AKC's responsibility to oversee the sport of purebred dogs, the executive field staff attend dog shows and performance events, serving in many different roles. An extensive background in purebred dogs is a must for the executive field staff.
The AKC GAZETTE, published monthly, has a staff of editors, as well as an art and design department. Other AKC jobs are as diverse as customer service, finance and accounting, and computer software development.
Other AKC departments include advertising, public relations, public education, canine legislation, and a library. There are many career opportunities available.
DOG SERVICE PROFESSIONS This article is proudly presented by WWW.DOGICA.COM
Groomer
Groomers are the barbers and beauticians of the dog world. Bathing, brushing, combing, trimming and styling a dog's coat are only some of the responsibilities of a groomer. Cleaning ears and cutting nails, as well as cleaning teeth and getting rid of fleas, are also part of a groomer's job. Several breeds have unique requirements that groomers must also learn.
Many groomer's clients are members of the dog show fancy, meaning people who are actively involved in the sport of purebred dogs. Groomers are an important part of the process in getting dogs ready for the show ring.
Grooming show dogs requires special bathing, clipping and brushing techniques. Pet dogs, which are also part of a groomer's clientele, usually do not require the same level of attention as show dogs.
Many groomers learn on their own. Some start as groomer's assistants and learn by observing the groomer. Nevertheless, the best place to learn is probably at a grooming school, especially if your experience with dogs is limited. The courses do not usually last more than a few weeks, financial aid is often available and most of the time the schools will help you find a job after you successfully complete the coursework.
Grooming has the potential of generating a comfortable income. There is plenty of flexibility in this career. You can work out of your own home and set your own hours. You can work part-time or full-time. You can also choose to work at a grooming shop, or open up your own shop. Some animal hospitals and pet supply stores offer grooming services.
To be happy as a groomer, you must be willing to deal with the occasional difficult dog and client. You also must be willing to invest the time it takes to build a solid base of clients. If you enjoy working with dogs hands-on, grooming can be a rewarding profession.
Trainer
Dog obedience trainers teach dogs how to respond to commands. They also teach dog owners how to train their own dogs. As long as people continue to own and enjoy dogs, there will always be a need for dog obedience trainers. Dog owners who give their dogs at least the most basic obedience training are much happier with their pet dogs. The neighbors and the community are better off, and the dogs are happier, too!
Train owners how to teach their dogs to behave properly by becoming an obedience instructor. Cesar Millan makes it look easy but he can't help all the dogs in need. Effectively educating the master means they will be more likely to keep and control their dog.
There are many opportunities available for dog trainers, including basic and advanced obedience training; training dogs to work with the blind, deaf and disabled; training dogs to search for lost people, drugs and bombs; and training dogs to work in movies, television and theater. However, all of these opportunities start with the basics.
Some trainers are lucky enough to learn directly from other established and well-known trainers. Some trainers learn by going to a school for dog obedience trainers. Regardless of the method, to become a competent and successful dog obedience trainer requires hard work, years of experience and a strong love of working hands-on with dogs almost every day.
There are some trainers who make a living just from teaching individual dogs the basics, but most trainers make a living teaching owners. Trainers of dogs that compete in field events are a notable exception. Field events test how well certain breeds help their owners hunt. This kind of training is very specialized, so many owners choose to hire a professional.
Once a dog obedience trainer is proficient in teaching the basics and advanced training, such as giving hand signals instead of voice commands, the trainer may consider specializing in one or more of the kinds of training mentioned above. These specializations take even more time to learn and master, but there is a demand for them.
Animal Behaviorist
Animal behaviorists are to dogs what therapists and psychologists are to humans. They analyze behavior problems in pets and recommend solutions to their owners. As the number of pets and pet owners continues to increase, the demand for animal behaviorists will grow, too. The ability to make a living in this field is limited to those people who have extensive knowledge and experience.
This is a relatively new field, and there are still only a small number of practitioners. A solid academic background in animal behavior and extensive experience in dealing with a variety of animals in hands-on situations are necessities. Even if you specialize in only one or two animals, such as dogs and cats, acquiring the amount of knowledge and experience necessary to be competent will take years. Applied Animal Behaviorists have completed postgraduate programs in a behavioral science and passed rigorous requirements. They are to animals as psychologists are to humans.
Bed Bug Detection Services
Bed bug detection dogs are specially trained by experts to identify the scent of bed bugs. They are far superior to humans at finding these annoying pests.
Their handlers typically charge from $100 to $200 per hour. Independent business owners simply work with their bed bug sniffing dogs and then an insect extermination firm comes in to do the dirty work. You can also work for insect extermination companies that have their own bed bug detection dogs.
Dog Sitter \ Walker
Much like a baby sitter, a dog sitter takes care of a dog in the dog's home while its owner is away. In addition to making sure the dog has food and water, dog sitters are sometimes asked to take care of miscellaneous things such as picking up the mail, feeding the fish or watering the plants.
Reliability and trustworthiness are essential to being a dog sitter. Basic dog knowledge is helpful as well.
Dog Walker - People's busy schedules can make outsourcing personal errands a must. Responsible pet owners who work an 8 hour day will often hire someone to stop by and take their dog out for mid day relief and exercise. Fees are usually based on a per visit/time spent basis with additional fees for taking care of any miscellaneous duties. Even though many dog sitters only work part-time, there are opportunities to work full-time, especially in urban areas. Some people have started their own full-time dog sitting agencies, with several part-time employees. Dog sitting is a growing field.
Dog Breeding
Becoming a dog breeder is about more than just letting purebred dogs have puppies and then selling them. If this is your mindset, then it is not for you. Though dog breeding can eventually become a career, it is wise to start out thinking of it as a serious hobby. To become a dog breeder, one must be dedicated to maintaining breed standards and keeping the dogs healthy and happy. Before getting started, it is essential to network with other more experienced breeders with reputations of excellence. It takes a serious investment of time and money to be a responsible breeder, but it can be very rewarding in the end.
The downside: Breeding dogs can take a financial and emotional toll \ A profit may not be made for several generations, if ever.
Boarding Kennels
Boarding kennels for dogs are like hotels for humans. Dog owners temporarily place their dogs in boarding kennels when, for whatever reason, they must be away from home.
Some of the job opportunities that are available by working in a boarding kennel include owner, manager and assistant. Owning your own boarding kennel and having someone else manage it may be the most ideal situation, but to start out, assisting or managing a kennel is more likely.
Since operating a kennel requires many different tasks to be completed on any given day, kennels always need assistants. Some of the tasks that kennel assistants perform are cleaning and disinfecting runs and crates, as well as giving the dogs food and water. Occasionally assistants bathe and medicate dogs, too. Additional tasks include providing dogs with exercise, playtime and love.
Kennel managers run the overall day-to-day operations. These include dealing with clients personally, receiving and releasing dogs from the kennel, ordering food and supplies, overseeing maintenance of the facilities and supervising the assistants.
Fees are charged per dog, per day with other fees charged for additional services. Even though owning and operating a kennel may provide enough income to make a living, many kennel owners do provide additional services to supplement their income. These additional services can make the difference between just getting by and making a comfortable living. Some of the additional services include professional grooming, extending boarding services to cats and other animals, and providing transportation for dogs to and from their homes to the veterinarian, airport and other locations. Kennel managers and assistants are usually expected to perform these additional services, too.
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Dog Food and Pet Accessories
Dog food companies and companies that make pet accessories are closely linked to the dog world. As with any other large corporation, they offer many different career opportunities.
Typical jobs range from clerical to management to sales. Many of these companies also have special jobs for those people who want more involvement with the dog world. Some have representatives who travel to dog shows across the country. Many companies sponsor dog-related events and programs, allowing regular and direct contact with the world of dogs. Salaries at many of these companies are competitive.
Novelty Items
Creating and selling dog-related novelty items can be a fun and profitable way to make a living. However, it may take some time and hard work to invent a unique product that people will want to buy. Some common novelty items include dog figurines, jewelry, toys and T-shirts.
Many dog-related novelty items are sold at dog shows and in dog supply catalogs. Both provide access to the people who are most likely to be interested in your product. At dog shows, vendors of novelty items rent booth space from the local dog club. As dog show spectators and exhibitors walk around, they wander past the vendors and almost always purchase something. If your dog-related novelty item is a success, consider renting booths at shows nationwide. Many of the same people you find at dog shows also receive dog supply catalogs. Catalogs are advantageous because you can reach more people at once than at a dog show.
How much or how little you make selling these dog-related novelty items is mostly up to you. It depends on the popularity of the product, whether you work part-time or full-time and how well you market your product.
Pet Supply Stores
Pet supply stores offer a wide variety of products for pets and their owners. In addition to pet food, most pet supply stores sell toys, books, pet furniture and other pet-related items. Employment opportunities include owner, manager and support staff.
As with any small business, owning a pet supply store requires specific management skills. As owner, you would be making business decisions that must enhance your store's income potential. To acquire these skills, consider taking a course on how to run a small business. Many local community colleges offer such courses.
Managing a pet supply store involves running the day-to-day operations. Some of the responsibilities include ordering merchandise and other supplies, bookkeeping, paying bills and delegating work to support staff. As a member of the support staff, some of your responsibilities would include stocking shelves, installing and maintaining displays, helping customers choose what products to buy, working the cash register and general cleanup.
Many pet supply stores offer additional services, such as professional grooming, to supplement their income. Some pet supply stores also work together with local animal shelters and dog clubs to educate the public about responsible pet ownership. These events are not only good for the community, but are also good for business by enhancing the pet supply store's status and introducing its services to potential customers. As a manager or member of the support staff, you would also be involved with these additional services. Salaries are sometimes modest, but enough to make a living. If you enjoy working with people and want to learn more about animals, especially dogs, you may want to consider working at a pet supply store.
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Veterinarian
Veterinarians are the first people who probably come to mind when anyone thinks about a career with dogs or other animals. The job of a veterinarian is similar to that of a human physician, except that veterinarians work on animals. Some people might argue that veterinarians actually have a harder job than human physicians. While human physicians only have to know the human body, veterinarians have to know about many different kinds of animals, not just one. Also, animals cannot tell you their problems, which makes accurate diagnosis hard.
Just as there are many kinds of physicians for humans, there are many different kinds of veterinarians. Some examples of veterinary specializations include such diverse disciplines as dentistry, chiropractic, dermatology, pharmacology and ophthalmology. A veterinarian may choose to specialize in general animal care, although he or she usually specializes in either large or small animals. Large animals include farm animals and horses. Small animals include dogs, cats and other common pets.
To become a veterinarian requires dedication, education and expertise. Starting in high school, you will need an interest and a very strong background in math and science. Potential veterinary students must complete four years of undergraduate school. Pre-veterinary studies include math and science, with a large emphasis on biology and chemistry, as the major components.
After you have successfully completed your pre-veterinary studies you will be ready to go to veterinary school. It takes four years of full-time study at an accredited veterinary school to receive a DVM degree, which stands for doctor of veterinary medicine. After receiving their DVM degree, veterinary school graduates must pass a licensing exam before they can work as veterinarians.
Once veterinary school graduates pass their licensing exam, they are ready to start their new careers as veterinarians. Usually these new veterinarians are not able to afford the costs involved in establishing their own practice or clinic. Some of the many start-up costs include purchasing or leasing space and equipment, as well as acquiring the necessary office and medical supplies. A common situation for a recent veterinary school graduate would be going to work at an established veterinary hospital for several years, and then perhaps becoming an equal partner with the other veterinarians who own the hospital or setting up a clinic of his or her own.
A typical day for a veterinarian who specializes in small animals might include checking on a dog or a cat that was just neutered the day before, performing surgery on a dog to remove a tumor, seeing clients, ordering blood tests, administering vaccinations, diagnosing illnesses and handling emergencies.
Veterinarians, almost without exception, make a comfortable living. It's important to keep in mind that even though their income has the potential to be lucrative, veterinarians have numerous costly expenses to maintain their practices. These expenses include insurance premiums and salaries for veterinary technicians and assistants.
A strong love for animals is necessary to be happy as a veterinarian. There are moments of satisfaction, such as when you are able to help an animal recover from an illness. There are also moments of frustration, such as when you have done all that you can, but you have no other choice than to euthanize the animal. Overall, the rewards can far outweigh other considerations, as long as you are willing to make the required commitments of time, energy and money to become a veterinarian.
Veterinary Technician / Assistant
Veterinary technicians and assistants share many of the same responsibilities. Since these two jobs are similar, sometimes the term "veterinary assistant" is used to describe both positions. However, veterinary technicians have additional training. Without the important help that veterinary technicians and assistants provide, veterinarians would have an almost impossible job.
A veterinary assistant's job is to assist the veterinarian with miscellaneous tasks. These may include caring for animals staying at the hospital or clinic overnight, helping clients, general clean-up of the facilities and clerical work.
If the veterinary hospital or clinic is large, veterinary assistants may only specialize in one or two things. If the veterinary hospital or clinic is small, veterinary assistants are often expected to perform a variety of tasks all by themselves. Most of these tasks are usually learned on the job.
Veterinary technicians are responsible for many of the same tasks as veterinary assistants. Additional responsibilities include operating laboratory and surgical equipment. Many of the technical skills required of a veterinary technician can be learned on the job working as a veterinary assistant. However, many schools now offer classes to become a certified veterinary technician.
Both jobs require a love of animals and an interest in veterinary medicine. Veterinary technicians and assistants must also be able to work in an office environment and deal with both pleasant and not so pleasant pets and their owners. Salaries vary, but usually range from modest to competitive.
Veterinary Science and Research
Veterinary science and research is a large field that offers several career opportunities. Some of the people involved in veterinary science and research have an occupation directly related to veterinary medicine, such as veterinarians, veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants. Many others, such as corporate executives, fund-raisers and clerical workers, do not. However, all these people are working toward the same goal.
In general, veterinary science and research is dedicated to improving the health and lives of animals. Many different kinds of companies support and sponsor studies to develop new methods of treating and preventing illness. Some examples are pharmaceutical companies, dog food companies and universities. Other funding sources include private donors, government agencies and charitable organizations, such as the AKC Canine Health Foundation.
As mentioned above, this field offers career opportunities to people with many different kinds of skills and backgrounds.
If your skills include administration and office support, perhaps you should consider a clerical or management position in a department at a pharmaceutical company involved in finding a cure to a genetic disease in your favorite breed.
If your skills include math and science, perhaps you should consider becoming a veterinary technician at a university conducting research on improving life expectancy for older dogs. The list of possibilities goes on and on.
Salaries in this field vary significantly, as do the kinds of jobs.
Regardless, there should be plenty of opportunities to find a career in veterinary science and research that will allow you to earn a sufficient income.
Dog Massage Therapist
Dog massage therapists improve the health and well-being of dogs by relieving muscle pain through massage therapy. If interested, you can start by interning under an animal massage therapist. Classes and seminars for dog massage therapists are available.
The Northwest School of Animal Massage reports that animal massage therapists are usually paid by the massage and the price ranges from $50 to $120 per massage.
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Animal Control Officer/Humane Officer
Animal control officers work for animal control agencies. These agencies are either contracted or created by cities and towns to enforce animal control laws. Some examples are pet-licensing laws that require dog owners to obtain a license from the municipality and an identification tag for their dog, as well as leash laws that require dog owners to walk their dogs on a leash in public. Animal control agencies and officers may also pick up lost/stray animals and catch dangerous ones.
In addition to enforcement of laws, animal control agencies and officers try to find good homes for the stray dogs and cats they pick up. They also try to find the owners of lost animals. Investigating allegations of animal cruelty is yet another function they perform.
Humane officers work for privately funded humane organizations educating the public about responsible pet ownership. A municipality will often contract a humane organization to act as its animal control agency. In this case, the humane officers assume the role of animal control officers. If the local city or town creates its own animal control agency, the humane officers will often work closely with the animal control officers to achieve their mutual goals.
Salaries for these positions are comparable to those for police officers. To be successful in this field, you have to be able to work hands-on with people and animals. Animal control officers and humane officers provide an important and often forgotten service to the community.
Animal Shelter Staff
Animal shelter staff is often comprised of a large number of volunteers. These volunteers help with the more basic and time-consuming tasks, such as exercising the animals, cleaning their holding areas and helping people who come to the shelter to adopt a dog or cat.
Volunteers often fill a large number of staff positions at animal shelters because many shelters do not have large budgets, so they need to dedicate the funds they do have to caring for the animals.
Members of the animal shelter staff who do receive a salary are responsible for managing the animal shelter. Some of these salaried employees include managers, clerical workers and accounting/finance positions. However, even some of these positions can be filled by volunteers, sometimes leaving very little room for salaried employees. Availability of these salaried positions depends on the size of the animal shelter, as well as the size of its budget.
Salaries for animal shelter staff are modest, but it is possible to make a living. If you enjoy caring for dogs, this field is worth considering.
Police/Military K-9 Units
Police and military K-9 units use dogs to search for illegal drugs, bombs and explosives, missing persons and people who become trapped after natural disasters, such as earthquakes and hurricanes.
Sometimes police K-9 units also use dogs to apprehend criminals attempting to escape arrest. Military K-9 units use dogs during war to help with guard duty and to send and receive important messages.
Members of police and military K-9 units are responsible for the dogs in their care. Both the dog and the police/military handler work together as a team. The handler regularly trains with the assigned dog and gives the dog exercise and companionship. They also practice old commands and learn new commands.
Professional trainers are often responsible for teaching the dogs and handlers, but, after that, the handlers take over daily reinforcement. Salaries are sometimes slightly higher than what an average police officer or a member of the military would make because of the specialized nature of the work. In addition to first becoming a police officer or a member of the military, you will need special training to work with these kinds of dogs.
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Circus Performer
Husband and wife team Dextre Tripp & Jayna Lee figured out a way to incorporate their love of dogs into their performance by casting their mix breed rescue dogs as stars in their act by founding Circus Stella. More importantly than simply entertaining audiences they strive to raise the public's awareness of the plight of shelter dogs and encourage people to adopt rescue animals.
Besides those, there are a few worldwide famous circus performers which work along with a different dogs to produce fantastic and simple circus tricks and to make a crowd happy.
Writer
Writers have many kinds of opportunities available to them in the dog world. Some outlets for dog writers include magazines, newspapers and books.
There are several general interest dog magazines across the country that cover a variety of subjects, including how to choose a dog and basic training. Also, there are many dog magazines that target the dog fancy, such as the AKC GAZETTE, and include such topics as how to breed a healthy dog and important news from dog shows. Both kinds of dog magazines are usually open to hiring novice writers, as long as those writers have some dog knowledge.
All kinds of newspapers nationwide, from daily to weekly and big to small, usually have a regular pet column. Even if they do not have a regular pet column, most have feature articles about pets. Here again, novice writers have an excellent opportunity, especially with the smaller newspapers, as long as they have some dog knowledge.
Dog books are numerous and cover a wide variety of subjects. Topics include introductory dog-care information, advanced training techniques and individual breed histories. In addition to nonfiction books, the demand for fiction dog books is growing, especially children's books. With such a large number of areas to cover, there will always be space for ambitious dog writers. Of course, the more detailed the subject matter, the more specific the writer's knowledge of dogs must be.
Another outlet for dog writers are dog food companies and other dog-related retail companies. These companies provide different kinds of brochures and other handouts about their products and on basic dog care.
To be a successful dog writer, you must first become a competent writer. Learning to write well does not just happen. It requires years of practice and begins with learning the basics in school. Once you feel that your writing skills are up to the challenge, you will need to acquire experience. Writing for the school newspaper is a good way to start.
Salaries will range from modest to comfortable. It will all depend on your level of expertise in both writing and dog knowledge, as well as what kind of material you are writing and who will be paying you. Making a living as a writer is not always easy, but it is possible for those who have skill and determination.
Photographer
The number of photographers specializing in animal imagery is growing rapidly. While some focus on wildlife or farm animals, many others focus on family pets. There are even some who focus exclusively on dogs, though that number is small.
Many animal photographers do not start out with the intention of becoming an animal photographer. The art of photography itself is what usually attracts people. Only after they have learned their craft and can make a living do they begin photographing animals exclusively. However, as the field becomes more established, this pattern may change.
You can learn about photography on your own as a hobby, from a friend or by taking classes at a local college or photography studio. Whichever way you choose, it will take time and money to learn the basics. It will take even more time to learn how to photograph dogs and other animals.
If you would like to focus on dog photography, one of the most common places to find work is at a dog show. Many dog clubs hire an official photographer to take pictures of all the winners. You can also meet people that would be interested in your work by renting booth space at the show. Other common outlets for dog photography are dog books and magazines.
Your salary will depend on whether you work part-time or full-time and how well you market yourself. However, quality is most important. Animal photography is an art. If done well, people will pay for it.
Illustrator
Illustrators specializing in animals have much in common with animal photographers. Some focus on wildlife, many others focus on pets such as cats and dogs. Some prefer a very realistic approach, while others specialize in cartoon-like illustrations. Both animal photographers and illustrators share many of the same clients, as well as the same outlets for their work. Additional outlets for animal illustrators include note paper, clothing, calendars and other similar products.
Illustration is an art that must be learned and done well before considering it as a career choice. While there are people that make a living as animal photographers, the market for animal illustrators is smaller. However, many animal illustrators do make a good living. Talent and self promotion are vital to your success in this field.
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Have you ever wanted to work with dogs for a living? Every job has its pros and cons, and dog-related jobs are no exception. However, a dog-related job can be rewarding and fun if you choose the one that's right for you. Check out these top careers for dog lovers to see if one of these careers is for you and find out what you need to do to get started.
Animal Behavior Behaviorists work with pets and their owners to implement programs designed to solve unwanted behaviors in pets. Applied Animal Behaviorists have completed postgraduate programs in a behavioral science and passed rigorous requirements. They are to animals as psychologists are to humans. Veterinary Behaviorists are licensed veterinarians who complete internships, residencies and pass advanced requirements to become board-certified specialists. Veterinary behaviorists can prescribe medications if needed, similar to human psychiatrists.
Boarding Kennels or Doggie Day Care If you want to spend time with healthy dogs, consider working in a boarding kennel or doggie day care center. These jobs are often available to those with no previous experience, and training is done on-site. With experience, one can eventually become a manager or business owner. Day care workers supervise playtime for dogs that stay for the day. Kennel attendants care for and clean up after dogs that are boarding for days to weeks. Kennels and day care centers sometimes operate under the same roof. However, kennels are often part of a veterinary practice, providing an opportunity to cross-train as a vet assistant.
Dog Breeding Becoming a dog breeder is about more than just letting purebred dogs have puppies and then selling them. If this is your mindset, then it is not for you. Though dog breeding can eventually become a career, it is wise to start out thinking of it as a serious hobby. To become a dog breeder, one must be dedicated to maintaining breed standards and keeping the dogs healthy and happy. Before getting started, it is essential to network with other more experienced breeders with reputations of excellence. It takes a serious investment of time and money to be a responsible breeder, but it can be very rewarding in the end.
Dog Grooming If you love the idea of primping Poodles, coiffing Cocker Spaniels, and making dogs look and smell pretty, then you might want to consider becoming a dog groomer. Professional dog groomers are the cosmetologists of the canine world. They style dogs for conformation, photographs and everyday comfort. If you are interested in grooming, try it first by going to work with a professional. As an assistant, you can learn the basics of grooming. To learn specialized techniques and styles, you can attend dog grooming school and even go on to achieve certification and membership with the National Dog Groomers Association.
Dog Sitting and Dog Walking If you enjoy caring for dogs and being your own boss, then pet sitting or dog walking might be just the thing for you. Many dog lovers have made a living at it, while others enjoy it as a side job for extra income. Dog sitters go to homes to care for dogs while their owners are out of town. Duties include feeding, walking, medicating, playing and cleaning up after dogs. Some are asked to spend the night, but most just visit 2-3 times a day. Dog walkers are especially common in large cities, where apartment dogs need more exercise than their owners have time for. Many dog walkers also work as pet sitters (and vice versa).
Dog Shows Working in the world of dog shows demands a deep love and solid understanding of the sport of purebred dogs.Handlers are paid by owners to handle their dogs at shows. The goal is to earn champion titles. A handler must have a strong grasp of breed standards, lots of experience working in dog shows and a willingness to travel frequently. To get started, consider working as a handler's assistant first. Judges have superior knowledge of dog breed standards down to the finest details. One can become a judge only after many years of experience in dog shows and breeding.
Dog Training
Working as a dog trainer requires an understanding of the canine mind, an ability to educate, and a great deal of patience. Dog trainers teach commands from basic to advanced and help dog owners teach these commands to their own dogs. Trainers also work with future service and working dogs, and some teach canine "actors" to perform for television and film. Though no specific education or certification is required to become a trainer, these will boost your knowledge and credibility. To get started, apprentice under an experienced trainer. In order to become successful, one must build a record of excellence.
Pet Supplies These days, dog owners want quality food and products for their dogs. They also want choices, hence the reason for so many different dog food companies and pet supply stores.With little or no experience, you can work in a pet supply store, meeting all kinds of dogs and learning about dog products. If you are interested in working behind the scenes, try a dog food company or toy manufacturer. Depending on the rules of the company or store, you may be able to bring your dog to work.In time, you can work your way up to management. With training and experience, you can eventually start your own dog food or dog supply business.
Public Services Working with dogs in service of the public can be a very selfless and rewarding experience. There are several ways you can work with dogs to make the world a better place.Police or military working dogs are teamed with a human partner (a qualified officer), often living with that person - even after retirement from service.Search-and-Rescue dogs are specially trained to find lost persons. They often live with their owners/handlers and are periodically called out for a search.Pet therapy is a great way to allow your canine companion to touch the lives of others. Your dog can go through a training program for pet therapy. Then, the two of you can visit nursing homes, hospitals and schools to encourage and lift the spirits of others.
Veterinary Medicine Working in the field of veterinary medicine, you will promote pet wellness and help sick animals. Veterinarians complete 4 years of college followed by 4 years of vet school to become doctors of veterinary medicine (DVM). Veterinary Technicians are vet nurses who have passed a test to become credentialed. In most cases they are required to complete 2-4 years of school in a vet tech program.Veterinary Assistants are similar to techs, but are not licensed and have not attended vet tech school. Because of this, they often cannot perform more advanced nursing duties - depending on state law
Every dog has its day and this year it's the 23rd of June where companies up and down the country will be celebrating Bring Your Dog to Work Day. It's a day where we honor our furry friends by welcoming them into our work places to celebrate the mutual adoration, love and support between owner and pet. The aim of the National Day is to raise money for charities dedicated to the welfare of dogs. This will be the fourth Bring Your Dog to Work Day and boasts participation from This Morning, The Guardian and Yahoo to name a few. Beyond the novelty of taking your dog to work, a recent collaboration with global giant Nestlé and the BBC claim that dogs are great for stress busting in the office. So, if your company isn't pet friendly here are a few reasons to consider bending the rules on the 23rd. While pet owners get that annual reprieve from the pangs of guilt that come with knowing their furry friends are sitting at home, bored out of their minds and probably peeing on something in revenge or is that just me? There are some tips to remember for a successful "Take Your Dog to Work Day." Fifty million people surveyed by the APPA said they believe having pets in the workplace helps people get along better. And 55 million said they believe pets in the workplace leads to more creativity.
Take Your Dog to Work Day might seem like extra work for the owner at first, but some employers find that allowing canine companionship at work actually boosts office productivity.
Know the rules. Make sure in advance that your office allows dogs. Due to lease agreements, concerns about allergies and other health issues, and management styles, Take Your Dog to Work Day may not be an option with your company. Double-check with your manager. If you get the OK, talk with coworkers to make sure they're comfortable with dogs before visiting their cubicle with your pup.
Make a Guest List Not all dogs have the right temperament to do well in an office, especially somewhere they've never been, and on a day when they'll be exposed to lots of other dogs and people. Ask your co-workers to sign up if they plan to bring in their dogs, and make sure they know that their dogs will be expected to be quiet, well-behaved and potty trained.
Find out if any of the dogs have problems with other dogs, and either discourage their owners from bringing them in or temporarily relocate the person to an area where there aren't any other dogs. If any kind of fight ensues, separate the dogs immediately and send them home.
Bring a Doggie Bag!
Don't come to TYDTWD empty handed. To ensure that your dog is comfortable and safe, bring the following:
Leash: Keep your dog on leash all day, even if you are in a private room. You may need to catch him quickly if he bolts for the door or gets into a confrontation with another person or dog. Crate or exercise pen: Although not strictly necessary, bringing a containment device for your dog will give you a break from constantly monitoring him throughout the day. Food, treats & bowls: If your dog is on a special diet, post a sign on your cubicle wall letting people know they shouldn't give him treats. Likewise, ask others before you give their dogs treats. Pet stain remover: Even if your dog is reliably housetrained, accidents still happen. Stay in the good graces of your boss and cleaning crew by cleaning up immediately. Poop bags: Set a good example and clean up after your dog when you're walking him.
Just like there is no "I" in "Team," there is no "Pee" in "Office." Let's keep it that way. Your co-workers may think Spot is oh-so-adorable, but just wait and see how the friendliness wears off when there's a wet spot or an odorous present under their desks. If you are bring your dog to work, remember to take care of its bathroom needs before you come in to work and at regular intervals during the day.
Just because you love your four-legged furchild, not everyone will feel the same way. A dog in the office will attract all the animal lovers within a 500-square foot radius. Let them come to you and do not force your dog on people who may be trying to work or would rather admire Fluffy from a distance.
Check around with your immediate neighbors to see if they have an allergy to dogs. Some people have severe allergies to pet dander that can cause asthma symptoms, swelling of the face and severe itching or rashes. This doesn't mean Fido can't come with you but consider trading offices or desks with a co-worker to give your sneezing neighbor a break.
Keep water and healthy treats on hand for your dog. Your dog will probably be thirsty from all the excitement of going to work with you. And rather than risk an upset tummy from lunch leftovers doled out by your well-meaning co-workers, keep a baggy with some favorite treats for those that want to dote on your dog.
Make sure your workspace is a safe haven for your dog before your four-legged best friend comes for a visit. This means cleaning up any food (both on top of and under your desk,) finding a new home for the day for your plants and removing or organizing any loose wires. And if you've got a puppy, remember to bring some chew toys so he doesn't decide to find his own in your chair.
Keep in tune with your dog. Some may bask in all the attention and revel in fast-paced office life. But others, including older dogs, may be overwhelmed by all the stimuli. If your dog begins acting anxious or panting excessively, give him a little break in your office or under your desk. Similarly, if you have a dog that you know ahead of time will react badly to office life, it's probably best to leave him at home and bring in a picture instead.
Bring something comfy for her to lounge on. Eventually probably around the time of that big staff meeting nobody has prepared for the novelty of having a dog in the office will wear off for your co-workers. So bring a bed, a fluffy blanket or a crate to stash beside your chair or under your desk where Snookums can hang out and watch you work.
Remember to do your work even if Mister Fuzz is giving you puppy eyes and licking your hand. Your boss was kind enough to allow your dog to join you for the day. Don't make him or her withdraw the offer next year.
Brush up on etiquette. If your dog greets visitors by jumping on them or can't seem to remember what "sit" means, brush up on commands and make sure the pup understands that you're the leader before venturing into an office setting with him.
Get social. Plan a few trips to a dog park beforehand. If your dog is uncomfortable meeting new dogs there, she might not be ready for Take Your Dog to Work Day yet. "If dogs are very needy or get uncomfortable or territorial in strange places, they need more socialization first," Armistead suggests.
Check your vet records. Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations before taking him to the workplace (for a full list of pet vaccines, read Are Annual Vaccinations Really Necessary?). If your pup's on any meds, be sure to pack them for the big day at work.
Come prepared. ASPCA says your doggy daypack should include food, treats, bowls, a leash, paper towels, and something to clean up any accidents. You can even bring a baby gate to cordon off your doggy area. And be sure your pet is wearing a sturdy collar with an ID tag.
Get ready for the big day. Make sure your dog is exercised and well hydrated and fed before heading to the office. "They're going to be a lot less stressed out and more accepting of new environments," Armistead says. Be sure to have a water bowl at work, too.
Schedule a meeting. When integrating a newly arrived canine into the office scene, put the dog on a leash so it can meet with the other dogs and pet parents outside. If your dog is nervous, meet up with just one or two other dogs, not a large group.
Avoid triggers. Don't bring your dog's favorite toy. Although it seems like a good idea, she could get very possessive over her favorite item, potentially triggering a fight with another dog.
Schedule around personality differences. If two office dogs just can't seem to get along, work with other pet's parent and stagger office visits so the dogs aren't there at the same time, Armistead suggests.
Look for signs of nervousness. Obvious signs of nervousness or stress include the tail between the legs. Small dogs may even shake. If your dog is stressed during your day together at work, go on a short walk outside during your break, and avoid introducing him to a large group of other dogs.
Know where your dog is at all times. This goes without saying, but Dogswell learned this the hard way when one of their own was discovered riding the elevator by itself in the middle of the workday!
And finally - have fun! Bringing your dog to work with you has many benefits. According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association, nearly one in five companies allows their employees to bring their dogs with them to work on a regular basis.
The Benefits for You... There are many benefits to bringing your dog to work. For example a number of scientific studies have found that keeping a dog in the office is an instant stress reliever, which helps to encourage production of the stress-reducing hormone oxytocin and decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol. As well as this, animals in the work place are excellent for team bonding, working as talking points that bring staff together. If the job you do is particularly sedentary, a dog in the office will help you to keep active as interacting with the dog will get you on your feet and away from your desk for short periods of time. As a bonus short breaks have been found to increase productivity, whilst studies have also shown that employees are more willing to work long hours with a dog in the office. Ultimately, bringing your dog to work improves your work/life balance as it means that you have a little piece of home away from home. This can be both a real comfort and source of joy during a stressful day at the office.
The Benefits for Your Dog... Many dogs suffer daily from separation anxiety, as they are left alone for long stretches of time whilst their owners are at work. This is because dogs are social animals that thrive on interaction, company and affection. Bringing your dog to work means that they would receive all of the attention they desire regularly and without the fees of doggy day care. Furthermore, if you struggle to find the time or energy to take your dog for a walk there are plenty of people in the office who would be willing to exercise he/she for you, taking him outdoors on lunch breaks and playing with him. Bringing your dog to work therefore means that your dog would have more time outside and in different environments than if he were just sitting at home. If your dog is a little timid, a day in the office is a great opportunity to get him in the mix with people as well as canine friends, whilst remaining at the comfort of your side. Socialising is extremely important for domestic animals as it ensures that they know how to behave correctly.
Talking from Experience ... In recent years hundreds of companies have jumped on board the pet at work policy, not least of which is Google. Google describes itself as a "dog company" believing that dogs represent fundamental qualities such as loyalty, playfulness and tenacity, which form part of the company ethos. At Amazon, their senior public relations manager is living proof of the bonding that can take place through bringing your dog to work, claiming that he has met over three-dozen people simply because of his dog. At the corporate headquarters of Nestle in London, all 1000 employees can bring their dogs to work if they so wish, whilst the company Firebox allows all staff members to bring in pets, asserting that the pets have a positive impact on the office - they bring everyone together, and provide almost endless entertainment value. Other companies that share this policy include Etsy, Build-A-Bear workshop, Pets at Home and The Blue Cross. It so seems that companies are really taking advantage of the benefits of bringing your pet to work. But before making this decision for your business, it is worth considering whether a pet policy is conducive to your company. Health and safety may be a factor if you work in a sterile environment, whilst small offices may not have the space for pets.
The Big Day... To participate in Bring Your Dog to Work Day all you need to do is make a donation online or via text message. To make sure that the day is for you, you should ensure that nobody in the workplace has animal allergies. At Nestlé the company operates a ‘Pawthorise’ policy, which means that all dogs must first be assessed before being allowed into the office space. Although this may seem a little extreme for one day, it is still a good idea to ensure that your dog is well trained and able to cope with the exposure that comes with being in an office where there may be a number of people, and possibly a number of other animals. If your dog is prone to anxiety or feeling overwhelmed it might not be such a great idea. Also think about whether your dog is toilet trained. Will it go tearing up the office and cause more stress than relief? Are you confident that you can trust your dog to wander freely and socialize in a friendly manner with everyone in the office? If your dog barks or whines for attention all of the time, this could also be a hindrance or distraction. In conclusion participating in Bring Your Dog to Work Day is great for the animal, office morale and productivity. The furry companions get all the attention their hearts desire, their loving owners have a little slice of home at work and petless staff get their fair share of puppy love. On top of all of the benefits for animals and employees, proceeds generated from participation in the day go towards fighting for better welfare and care for man's best friend.
DOGS IN THE OFFICE This article is proudly presented by WWW.CONFUSED.COM
For more detailed information about specific dog-related careers and jobs, contact these organizations:
Professional Handlers Association 17017 Norbrook Drive Olney, MD 20832 301-924-0089
National Dog Groomers Association of America P.O. Box 101 Clark, PA 16113 724-962-2711 www.nationaldoggroomers.com
Animal Behavior Society Indiana University 2611 East 10th St. 170 Bloomington, IN 47408-2603 812-856-5541 www.animalbehavior.org
National Association of Professional Pet Sitters 17000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 856-439-0324 www.petsitters.org
American Boarding Kennels Association 1702 East Pikes Peak Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80909 719-667-1600 www.abka.com
American Veterinary Medical Association 1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100 Schaumburg, IL 60173 847-925-8070 www.avma.org
National Animal Control Association P.O. Box 480851 Kansas City, MO 64148 www.nacanet.org
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals 424 East 92nd Street New York, NY 10128 212-876-7700 www.aspca.org
Professional Photographers of America 229 Peachtree St., NE, Suite 2200 Atlanta, GA 30303 1-800-786-6277 www.ppa.com
The Graphic Artists Guild 90 John St., Suite 403 New York, NY 10038 1-800-500-2672
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