Animal Trainer

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Work Tasks

• Train animals to follow commands, compete in shows, do tricks, race, protect, help, and entertain people
• Teach animals to follow spoken, hand, spur, and rein commands and practice the commands
• Teach seeing-eye dogs and their masters to work together
• Feed, exercise, and care for animals
• Work indoors and outside, depending on the kind of training and the animal
• Work with dogs, cats, horses, and other animals; reins, spurs, leashes, jumping equipment, and cleaning and grooming tools

Salary, Size & Growth

• $34,000 average per year ($16.25 per hour)
• A small occupation (9,700 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.0% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A high school diploma
• Employers Prefer: A 4-year degree in a field such as marine biology or zoology, and experience with a particular group of animals
• Skills/Courses: Skills include training ability, swimming, knowledge of animal behavior, and patience.
• Certification/Licensing: Licensing is required.