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Look for a four-year college degree in a scientific field, such as behavioral
psychology, biology, zoology or animal science. A science degree will really
help you out, says Michele Cossa. She's a dolphin trainer at Discovery Cove
in Orlando, Florida.
To become a marine animal trainer like Cossa, you'll need to pass a swimming
test. You'll need to know CPR and have lifeguard training. You will also need
to be trained in first aid and have your open water scuba certification. Employers
will look for these qualifications on your resume before they hire you. But
once you land a job your company will likely pay to keep your certifications
up to date.
Experience working with animals will help you on the track to becoming
a trainer. Think about getting a part-time or summer job in the field. You
could work or volunteer at a zoo, farm, marina or veterinarian's office. Look
for internships at zoos or aquariums to learn the foundations of the job.
Some zoos or aquariums offer career camps, allowing young people to get a
feel for the job.
Jason Green is the assistant curator of rhinos and hoof stock at Busch
Gardens in Tampa, Florida. The field is becoming more competitive, and the
requirements to enter it are going up too, he says. Networks like Animal Planet
and the Discovery Channel have increased the public's exposure to animals.
Zoos are also becoming more technological, and the requirements of zoo staff
are more stringent.
Aubrie Dromarsky is a horse trainer and runs her own business. She says
there are many college programs to help guide people into this career. However,
she finds most people in her industry are second- or third-generation ranchers,
farmers or rodeo people.
"It takes a lifetime for sure -- maybe two -- to even begin to fully understand
these animals, and there is a lot that books and schools can teach," she says.
"But the most important thing is just getting out and being around these animals.
They teach something new every day."