Profile -- by Ty Addison

Have you always enjoyed the company and companionship of animals? Do you have a desire to teach and to have an exciting and rewarding career? If you are a sensitive and patient person, an animal trainer may be for you.

Training animals can be one of the most fulfilling careers out there. There are many different types of animal trainers, some may focus on training several different kinds of animals and some specialize in one area. There are various training paths a person can choose from, such as; training for security, assisting peoples with disabilities, or, performance and obedience.

Leslie Gilmore is a part time dog obedience trainer and couldn't be happier with her job. "I've always had a love for animals, and gained a particular interest in dogs because of the one my family had while I was growing up." Leslie began her career when she started teaching her dog basic tricks and obedience skills. She would also train dogs for family and friends and realized that she had a feel for training dogs. She would use these skills as a backbone to her future career goals.

Leslie volunteered at her local animal shelter and took some courses on dog obedience as opportunities arose. One of the best ways to get your foot in the door is talking to as many people as you can about the possibilities that are available. It is recommended that every dog trainer be certified through various courses, usually available at your local animal shelter. The courses you can take are usually broken into stages covering everything from theoretical approaches and hands-on approaches to understanding and training animals. It's different for every person, but the courses will take about 40 weeks on average. "I would recommend volunteering with an animal society to decide if you really want to be involved on a daily basis with animals, and then apply that knowledge to your certification course. Strive to be the best in your class and be enthusiastic about your work."

A typical day for Leslie can involve many different tasks such as accustoming a dog to a human voice or reinforcing obedience commands. "I work with the dogs for about 3-4 hours a day and earn around $16-18 per hour, depending on the dog(s), and the expectations of the owner."

Leslie is also in charge of the dogs' nutrition and exercise. "You need to be patient and have good problem solving skills". Like humans, everyone animal is different and needs to be trained in special ways. "What works for one dog, won't work for another, you have to be creative. It can be frustrating at times but the reward is worth it."

If pet ownership increases, as it has steadily for the past 10 years, the demand for animal training should increase as well. It can be one of the most fulfilling jobs available today. There are many different career paths an animal trainer may choose to take, and a variety of specializations. As an animal trainer it could lead you to limitless possibilities and exciting experiences. "I like how I am not limited to working in one city, as long as people have pets; they will need people to train them."

Alberta Occupational Profiles - Animal Care Attendant

National Occupation Classification - Pet Groomers and Animal Care Workers

Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers

The Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers

University of Alberta - Animals and Society course

Pacific Assistance Dogs - training puppies to become potential Assistance Dogs.

Oops-a-Dazy - volunteer animal training.

Wonder Dogs!
Bark Busters
Canczechdogs

Dog Training Calgary & Area

Dog Training Red Deer & Area

Paws-itively fun K9's
Taylor Made Pet Care

Dog Training Edmonton & Area

DogsPaw
Paws that Please

Animal Trainer - Video Profile.

Running Time Approx. 2:00 min/sec