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Career Details : Animal Trainers

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Description

Train animals for riding, harness, security, performance, or obedience, or assisting persons with disabilities. Accustom animals to human voice and contact; and condition animals to respond to commands. Train animals according to prescribed standards for show or competition. May train animals to carry pack loads or work as part of pack team.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.

Tasks

  • Trains animals to protect property, compete in shows or races, obey commands, or perform tricks to entertain audience.
  • Evaluates animal to determine temperament, ability, and aptitude for training.
  • Trains guard dog to protect property and teaches guide dog and its master to function as team.
  • Cues or signals animal during performance.
  • Arranges for mating of stallions and mares and assists mares during foaling.
  • Feeds, exercises, and gives general care to animal.
  • Observes animal's physical condition to detect illness or unhealthy condition requiring medical care.
  • Trains horses as independent operator and advises owners regarding purchase of horses.
  • Rehearses animal according to script for motion picture or television film or stage or circus program.
  • Conducts training program to develop desired behavior.
  • Trains horses for riding, show, work, or racing.

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    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

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    Frequent Work Context

    • Objective or Subjective Information
    • Frustrating Circumstances
    • Hazardous Situations
    • Job-Required Social Interaction
    • Provide a Service to Others

    Related Majors

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    Equine Managementadd Equine Management to MyFSA
    Equine Sciencesadd Equine Sciences to MyFSA
    Equine Studiesadd Equine Studies to MyFSA
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