I’m a high school dog lover in Chicago, and I’m in the process of reading your book. I know that you’ve gone through extensive research to address all the psychological needs that dog owners must look at. I’m considering a career where I am working with dogs, possibly working as a dog behaviorist. Do you know of any specific jobs involving dog care, training, or studying? I’m really not sure of the range of work there is for dogs/animals. I would appreciate any advice you could give. Thanks!

From: Kelsey, in Chicago, Illinois

(I asked our official DOG TALK trainer, Aimee Sadler, to fill in the blanks for me, and here is her excellent reply. —Tracie)

Dear Kelsey,

Previously, one needed to be a veterinarian to then attain a degree as an animal behaviorist (similar, in humans, to a psychiatrist as opposed to a psychologist).  There is a new organization that now certifies trainers to be behaviorists, and I know many of the founders.  I’d suggest you go to www.iaabc.org for a look.  And actually, if you’re interested in training, I’d urge to you investigate your opportunities through www.iacp.org as well.

Yes, absolutely, you should volunteer your time at a shelter -- preferably one with an active training and volunteer program so that you can learn in addition to providing enrichment for animals.  Shelters are sometimes so busy, unfortunately, that it can be difficult to absorb the knowledge you’re looking for, so seek out those with substantial resources.  It’s the best environment to saturate yourself with handling opportunities.  Just know going in that the environment can be stressful.

Nowadays, doggie day care facilities can be great places to really observe behavior.  Like anything else, there are good ones and bad ones, and there’s always the potential as a newbie to learn a lot of the wrong stuff, so you’ll have to use your head.

If you’re interested in training, I’d shy away from vet tech and grooming work.  The handling taught in those disciplines is very specific to safety, and very goal-oriented.  Neither environment promotes the best behavior in animals, and I’ve seen people learn to be very afraid and defensive in their handling, out of necessity.  

There’s my advice.  I think your goal is terrific, Kelsey.  Good luck!

Aimee Sadler

UPDATE BELOW:

Wow, thanks for all the info, Tracie and Aimee! I really appreciate that you took the time to answer my questions, and gave me plenty of resources, too. I have another question, if that's okay: as a future dog owner (hopefully!) I have read most of your book already. I was wondering about a grooming aspect of a dog's life; specifically, the concept of the "puppy cut." Do you know of any special tips or tools I would need to do this myself? Or is this a job only a professional groomer should handle? I would much prefer to learn how to do it myself, because of the cost, and because I could get exactly what I want, with some practice. Thanks again! Kelsey

Dear Kelsey,

First thing you should do is get yourself to a local groomer, and ask if you can assist or apprentice, so you can learn some basic skills -- nothing beats hands-on training. Doing a "puppy cut" at home is a snap, once you have the self-confidence -- and a couple pairs of good dog scissors. I admire your initiative. Please let me know how it goes. Good luck!

Tracie Hotchner