An animal trainer works with horses at a performance.
A trainer trains animals for various reasons, such as performances, riding, security or assisting a person with a disability. A trainer helps animals become accustomed to the human voice, as well as human contact. Training an animal may take small steps and slow progress. It may take months or years of repeated training to achieve certain behaviors. A trainer is also known as an animal trainer.
Roles
A trainer conditions animals to respond to certain commands, according to the Occupational Information Network. If an animal needs to be prepared to for a show, a trainer trains the animals to fulfill expected standards in shows or competitions. When a trainer publicly displays the talent and ability of an animal, he has an opportunity to entertain and educate the public through interactive programs. Trainers may train animals to work as a part of a team or carry pack loads. A trainer may also cross over into areas that involve animal care, such as prepping their diet and providing safe and clean surroundings.
Salary
Animal trainers earned an national median salary of $27,270, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2008 Employment and Wages data. The median salary ranged from below $16,700 to above $51,400.
Employment
Personal care and service occupations employed the highest number of animal trainers and paid an average of $34,830, according to the BLS May 2008 data. Other industries that employed high numbers within this occupation were support activities for animal production; spectator sports; miscellaneous store retailers; and amusement gambling and recreation industries.
The local government offered the highest pay with an average salary of $40,160.
Environment
Trainers can be found working in competition or shows, such as the circus, marine parks or aquariums, according to BLS. Others can be found in animal shelters, dog kennels and horse farms. Trainers can work indoors and outdoors in all types of weather.
Education
Animal trainers are often required to have a high school diploma or GED, according to the BLS. Some employers require a bachelor's degree, as well as additional skills. Examples of degrees are as follows: biology, animal science, marine biology or a related field. An animal health technician degree is also another option for an aspiring trainer. Equine trainers typically learn on-the-job by starting work at a stable as a groom. Some receive schooling at a private training school. Dog trainers may attend workshops and courses offered at community colleges or vocational schools.
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