Saturday, August 13, 2016

How to Get Paid to Work with Dogs

There are many interesting jobs you can do that involve dogs.  Do you enjoy taking care of them?  Here are some ideas for you....

The most obvious dog type of job is that of Veterinarian. Of course, it takes many years of schooling, and you have to have top grades to get into vet school, but vets are in contact with and care for the pups all of the time. From female dogs in labor to cancer to canine flu, veterinarians see it all. They have a real chance to help people and their pets overcome obstacles that come with dog ownership.

The vet helpers are assistants and technicians who help control the dogs, draw blood, set up rooms, do the cleaning, and assist with surgeries. There are also clerical duties to be done in a vet's office. It's fast paced, physical work.

So is that of a professional dog handler. This is the person on the other end of the leash when you watch the big Westminster show on TV.  The handler is hired by dog owners to show the dog in the ring, and be in charge of caring for the dog between classes, until the owner picks him up or he is delivered home.  Handlers may specialize in one breed or group of similar breeds and handle 5 or more dogs in any one show.

English-Springer-Spaniel show

Dog photographers get to seize the moment with these tail-waggers as they photograph them at shows, obedience events, agility trials, or just out in the world as they go through the day with their owners. Talented photographers can make money at shows, in their home towns as studio photographers, or even sell their pictures online.  They may even publish a book of photos. There are many areas of photography that are inviting to dog lovers.

There are many other kinds of jobs in the work with dogs category.  If you just want to make a little money on the side, you can become a pet sitter or a groomer.  Or maybe a trainer, if you have had experience or want to learn it. Seek out some people who actually do these jobs and find out what it's like.

One job that I found out about that is not obvious is that of a sketch artist or an illustrator who will charge for a personal portrait of your beloved friend, or work as an illustrator for a publisher.  If you are talented enough, that could put some money in your pocket at dog shows or other events.

If you want to earn money by having dogs in your life, then maybe a job working with dogs can be just right for you.  Good luck!

Heubach hunting dog