So… you want to work with pets? There are lots of options out there… but sometimes the picture in your head doesn’t quite match up with the reality of the job. I have volunteered in shelters, and some days I came home and cried because I couldn’t save all the dogs that I loved. So before you quit your job to become the next Horse Whisperer or Doctor Dolittle… you might want to think about the potential downsides of your new career.
Animal Shelter Staff
THE IDEAL: Helping puppies and kitties find forever homes!
THE REALITY: Yes, that’s a large part of your job. BUT… you also have to deal with people surrendering their pets, difficult to place pets, and euthanasia if you’re working at a kill shelter. This job can be very rewarding, and this job can be a heartbreaker.
Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
THE IDEAL: Great weather, a herd of dogs trotting along at your side!
THE REALITY: The weather isn’t always great, but the dogs always need walking. And when you’re drumming up business, keep in mind that you’ll be going into strangers’ homes and taking their pets out. Some dogs may not take kindly to the intrusion. You may want to investigate business insurance in case anything happens to the house.
Doggy Day Care
THE IDEAL: Frolicking with the doggies all day!
THE REALITY: There are a lot of logistical issues with starting a doggy day care. Are you going to have these dogs in your house? In your yard? Or will you rent a facility? You’re going to need several separate areas for different dogs. What if they don’t all get along? You may have fights to break up. You’ll also have a LOT of cleaning to do. You’re gonna need insurance on this one – what if a pet in your care gets hurt or sick?
Groomer
THE IDEAL: Brushing dogs and cats all day – what’s not to love?
THE REALITY: It’s a dirty job but somebody’s gotta do it. Imagine bathing a reluctant Great Dane! Groomers risk frequent bites and scratches. You may be upset by the lack of care some pets get. You may discover skin problems, insect infestations, and other icky stuff the owners may not want to hear about. Plus… what happens if you give a bad haircut? My father has NEVER forgiven the groomer who shaved his precious princess Becca… once, about six years ago.
Vet Tech/Assistant
THE IDEAL: Healing the sick kitties and puppies.
THE REALITY: The ones you can’t save may break your heart every day. You may be upset by the lack of care some pets get. Plus there’s all the cleaning, sterilizing, prepping and other work that goes into a veterinary service.
Want to try out a new job? I’d suggest asking around. See if your local groomer or doggy day care will let you sit in for a day and see what it’s really like. Maybe you’ll love it, maybe you’ll hate it, but it’s worth finding out BEFORE you quit your petless day job!