Animal training is an essential field which involves the teaching of different types of animals to react to particular commands. The experts who carry out these training procedures are called animal trainers. The training is given to a variety of animals for diverse purposes such as riding, security, obedience, performance and helping the disabled people. They use several training techniques to carry out this job. Acclimating animals to human voice and contact and respond to commands is one such method of training.

These professionals also utilize stimuli to interact when animals respond accurately to the commands. They normally use positive reinforcement which includes toys, food, rubdowns, play, etc. Some others may also use punishment to train the animals. They instruct the animals to respond under diverse conditions and obey particular commands. Many other different animal care responsibilities like preparing food, providing surrounding and habitat which is clean and safe are also supervised by the animal trainers.

Qualifying Exam

The individuals who wish to become an animal trainer should at least possess a qualification of bachelor’s degree. A high school diploma qualification is also accepted. Candidates can obtain the undergraduate degree in animal science or related disciplines. Most of the candidates will complete this formal education at technical institutions or other universities. The employers prefer mostly the candidates with bachelor’s degree in related study. Some of these employers will also offer job training to get experience in the procedures, policies and techniques to train animals while some others recruit experienced candidates.

Who is eligible to apply?

The students can apply for the bachelor’s degree or diploma course in animal science after successfully completing their higher secondary schooling from a reputed institution. Apply in a recognized institution or university that offers this undergraduate degree programme. The students can apply for the concerned jobs after pursuing the graduation.

Key points in the process

• Pursue pass in the 10+2 or equivalent examination with Biology of a recognized board.
• Join for the bachelor’s degree or diploma programme in animal science or related field in any recognized university and pursue it.
• Search out for the job as Animal trainers and apply for the position.

Skills required for an Animal Trainer

The candidates with a high passion and love for animals are most suitable for the career as animal trainers. They should also possess certain outstanding skills to perform in this profession. They must have relevant working experience with wide variety of animals. The desirable and important characteristics needed for an animal trainer includes patience, good problem solving ability, sensitivity and respect. Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential for them, since they have to interact with many different people and other professionals.