Want One of These Animal-centered Jobs? How Are Your People Skills?

August 12, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options

Owl with Speech BubbleBy Paula Fitzsimmons

It seems counter-intuitive that a job involving animals would require good people skills. The reality is that regardless of which animal-centered career path you choose (or heck, with anything in life), you’ll likely need to work with people. Even if it’s just on a limited basis.

This can be a little daunting for those of us who want to work for or with animals. Why do I say that? Because I believe most of us “animal people” tend to be on the independent side. I don’t have any studies to back this up; it’s just a sense I’ve gotten from being around other advocates. And there’s nothing wrong with that . . . everyone is wired differently. I’m an introvert, by the way.

No Degree? No Problem! Find a Job in Animal Advocacy Without College

August 3, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options, Featured articles24 Comments

Owl_Degree

By Paula Fitzsimmons

You have your heart set on working as an animal advocate, but may believe your lack of college credentials will hold you back. A traditional college degree isn’t ideal for everyone – and even if you do want to go, it could be that you can’t swing the tuition right now.

Luckily there are jobs involving animals that you can find in an assortment of fields . . . including those below. You will need at least a high school diploma, and depending on the position, you may need experience, excellent interpersonal skills, and perhaps a few college-level courses or training. (Read my article, “10 Free & Low Cost Career-Boosting Courses & Training Opportunities for Animal Advocates” for resource ideas.)

Writer, Author . . . Animal Lover

May 21, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options, Featured articles

Owl with BookBy Paula Fitzsimmons

You’re a wordsmith, someone who can effectively write to persuade, educate, and get people thinking and talking. What you’d probably like to know is how to turn those skills into a writing career – specifically, a career writing about animals or the environment.

If you’re like other writers, you may have started your journey with book and magazine markets. These are still feasible options, but are just one path to consider.

6 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Starting an Animal Rescue

May 6, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options, Featured articles

Rescue cats and other needy animals.By Paula Fitzsimmons

There’s no question a need for animal rescues, shelters, and sanctuaries exists.

The animal welfare community has worked – and succeeded – to decrease the number of homeless animals, but there are still pressing issues. According to a 2012-2013 study by the former National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy (by way of the Humane Society of the US), there are an estimated 3,500 animal shelters in the United States – with 6 to 8 million cats and dogs entering these shelters each year.

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees: Help Raise Funds for Animal Nonprofits

May 5, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options, Featured articles

Money doesn't grow on trees. Help animal nonprofits with fundraising.By Paula Fitzsimmons

An animal nonprofit can be well-respected, have solid goals, and a dedicated group of staff and volunteers. But without adequate funding, most won’t get very far.

For animal rescues & sanctuaries, food, veterinary bills, and land required to house the animals, all cost money. And unlike the image you see in this post, the green stuff doesn’t grow on trees. Sure, people and businesses may at times, donate these products & services; but often not at the level required to care for the hundreds of needy animals they may receive each year.

Want to Make Animals Your Life’s Work? Discover Your Choices

April 30, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options, Featured articles

Animal jobs and careersBy Paula Fitzsimmons

I’ll assume you’re reading this because you’re crazy about animals, and that you’d love to make a living based on this passion. But your choices may seem limited: Veterinarian. Dog walker. Pet sitter. Groomer. And let’s not forget . . . pooper scooper. These are some of the more common career titles you’ve probably come across while researching animal-centered jobs.

These can be fantastic career paths for some. And they’re quite important, too – what would this planet be like without vets and other animal care providers?