Animal-behavior therapists work with farm animals and domestic pets.
Animal-behavioral science studies the interaction between distinct groups of animals and people as well as the interaction of animals with their environment. Animal-behavior therapists are professional counselors trained to treat behavior problems in farm animals, birds and domestic pets. They offer expertise in investigating the cause of disruptive behavior patterns and outline practical treatment programs for their clients' circumstances.
Love of Animals
A passionate love for animals and a desire to relieve their suffering is a prerequisite for anyone wanting to pursue a career as an animal-behavior therapist. Although many people enjoy and gain satisfaction from working with animals, candidates entering this field should know the dangers inherent in animal behavior. When wounded, ill or mistreated, animals can turn vicious. Caring for animals requires dedication. The work is sometimes tedious, demanding and unpleasant.
Physical Stamina
Working with animals demands a great deal of standing for extended periods of time. Walking, running and lifting may be required. Animal-behavior therapists may be required to lift cages, equipment and supplies. Strength may be needed to control an animal. Behavior of both domestic and wild animals is often unpredictable. An animal-behavior therapist must be able to react quickly and decisively to cope with erratic or aggressive animal actions.
Emotional Stability
The heartbreaking plight of wounded or abused animals is emotionally draining. Some animals will not respond to behavior modification, which can be frustrating and depressing. Animal-behavior therapists must remain calm and carry on when faced with upset owners or uncommunicative animals. You may have to advise or participate in euthanizing an animal. Animal-behavior therapists should always present a professional demeanor when dealing with owners and animals.
Communication
Communication is one of the most important skills required by a animal-behavioral therapist. Students must understand many aspects of human behavior in order to notice and accurately predict how an animal will react to its human companion, trainer or caregiver. Animal-behavior therapists must clearly convey information to humans, and decisively convey commands to animals.
Education
Students wishing to pursue a career in animal-behavior therapy, study animal care and behavior by enrolling in an American Veterinary Medical Association-approved educational program. Junior and community colleges offer three-year programs to obtain an associate degree in veterinary science. Colleges or universities present four-year programs to earn a bachelor's degree in veterinary science. Candidates who pursue secondary educational options receive the highest salaries and preference in hiring and advancement opportunities.
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