Animal behaviorists work with animals and study the causes and effects of animal behavior. This knowledge can be used to benefit humans, animals or both. Animal behaviorists can work as consultants and trainers, in settings such as animal parks, zoos, animal clinics and research laboratories. Another branch of animal behavior has to do with training companion animals. If you’re interested in learning how to become an animal behaviorist, here are the steps you need to take.
- Understand animal behavior. Animal behaviorists work to understand why animals exhibit certain behaviors. This can be done through observation and experimentation. Part of what the behaviorist wants to know is how animals interact with each other and their environment. Why do animals suddenly change their behavior, how are environmental changes and changes in habitat affecting them. This knowledge can then be used in several different ways. For instance the most common reason pets are given up is due to behavior problems. If the animal behaviorist can work with the pet to eliminate the problem behavior, then both pet and owner will be happy.
- You’ll need several degrees. Your education can actually begin in high school by keeping your grades up and taking classes in biology. Most animal behaviorists have at least a Bachelor’s degree, usually in science or animal science. Those who wish to go on to become certified will need to have at least a Master’s degree in biology or behavioral science with an emphasis in animal behavior. A bachelor’s degree will generally take four years to complete after graduating from high school or obtaining a GED. A master’s degree will take an additional two years to complete. Some animal behaviorists will get a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) which will give them special insight into the role illness plays in behavior. Some very good animal behaviorists have no formal education, but do spend time in extensive observation and experimentation. Some animal and dog trainers can fall into this group of behaviorists.
- Pass the exams. Those who take the DVM route will have to pass a licensure examination for the state in which they intend to practice.
- There are two certifications. The Animal Behavior Society offers two certifications.
- The Associate Applied Animal Behaviorist certification is granted to those who have a master’s degree that included a research based thesis. The degree must also include 21 hours of behavioral sciences. Two years of professional experience in animal behavior is also required.
- The second certification granted is the Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist. This requires a doctoral degree in biology or behavioral science with an emphasis in animal behavior plus five years of professional experience in animal behavior. The same certification will be granted to those who have graduated with a DVM and have two years of residency in animal behavior.
- The more clients, the more money. The salary range is between $35,000 and $105,000. The large range has to do with educational differences in the profession as well as location of the job and size of the facility. Animal behaviorists who work for the federal government tend to make more money than those in the private sector. Dog and animal trainers can make significant salaries depending upon the number of clients they have. As with any business, those with good marketing skills will do better at attracting new customers.
- An increase in pets leads to an increase in the job outlook. With the increase of companion animals, the profession is expected to grow by between 15-20% in the next 10 years. This number may increase as the movement for ethically raised farm animals increases.
- Look into volunteer opportunities. While professional experience is invaluable when going for certification, volunteering to work with animals will look good on your resume and is a big help if you are going to do the DVM tract. Volunteers are always needed at animal shelters, zoos and humane societies. In addition, working with experienced dog trainers will help you gain valuable experience.
These are the steps toward becoming an animal behaviorist and pursuing zoology careers. Remember, the key here is to start early, know what to aim for, focus all your efforts toward attaining your goals, and to sincerely love animals!