The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be
judged by the way its animals are treated.
—Gandhi
When deciding what they want to be when they grow up,
children should start with a simple question: What makes you
happy? For many people, kids and adults alike, working with
animals is an important and enjoyable part of their lives. With
thoughtful planning and training, this passion can actually
translate into a career.
When school lets out for the summer, give your kids
something to think about by helping them explore working with
and for animals. You can involve your children with
humane-education projects such as making a wildlife refuge in
your back yard, volunteering at an animal shelter, or even
creating original artwork that promotes animal protection.
Willow Ann Sirch's book, Careers with Animals,
written for students in grades three through eight, gives
career advice for the young person interested in helping
animals. Careers vividly illustrates 31 different
animal-oriented professional opportunities, divided into six
easy-to-understand career categories: animal shelters,
veterinary medicine, working with pets, working with wildlife,
the arts, and specialty careers. Real-life examples and
comments from people in the field provide insight into possible
career paths. Some of the professions highlighted are:
- Humane Society Director
- Animal Control Officer
- Animal Shelter Veterinarian
- Veterinary Technician
- Obedience Trainer
- Wildlife Biologist
- Naturalist
- Photographer
- Writer
- Lawyer
- Lobbyist
While written for a young audience, this comprehensive guide
is a useful resource for anyone who loves animals and is
considering a career shift.
