Animal Behavior & Training Career

[StephenAndKyleigh]

Are there any animal trainers here? If so, what steps have you taken to make this a full time career? I have absolutely fallen in love with training my own flock, and am wondering what it would be like to actually learn how to train and change behaviors to various species of animals. I am 27 years old so a career change isn't all that crazy for me - even if I have to go BACK to school for a bit. Advice?

 

[Aquila]

I used to be a dog trainer, though training was provided through my former employer (PetSmart) I went on and did my own research about different certifications and things that I could offer in that respect, as well as I branched out to grooming and such. I use the same techniques I used on dogs, on my birds. Positive reinforcement, clicker training, etc.

For birds, I think maybe visiting some local zoos or anywhere that has an aviary and talking to people who already have experience working with the public might be able to point you in a better direction in terms of getting any kind of formal education in the matter, such as getting some education or teaching certifications or similar. I'm sure there are a few wildlife rescues that you might be able to talk to in general about bird rehabilitation and such. Though not directly related, many of those, especially bird sanctuaries do come in contact with parrots on occasion and they might have some further connections for you.

Research, research, research. I'd also suggest maybe starting a youtube channel as those rise in popularity pretty fast and I think you would have no problems getting popular!

The other thing would be I'd say to talk to your avian vet, who has had some education in animal psychology and behavior. I think making as many connections with people as possible will help you to find the direction you want to go in.

 

[JerseyWendy]

I know this thread isn't too 'fresh', but the info contained therein may still provide helpful. http://www.parrotforums.com/behavioral/3172-how-become-animal-behaviorist.html

 

[Anansi]

Great link, Wendy!

 

[StephenAndKyleigh]

Yes, thanks for that link! I am going to keep doing my research and hopefully something starts to come in place for me. I will keep everyone updated if anyone cares. Just chasing dreams over here.

 

[MonicaMc]

There is a good book about becoming a trainer.... i.e. running your own business or being an employee of a place that trains dogs (i.e. a pet store).

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0966772687"]So You Want to be a Dog Trainer (2nd edition): Nicole Wilde: 9780966772685: Amazon.com: Books[/ame]


In regards to birds.... Natural Encounters, Good Bird Inc, Cockatoo Downs, Behavior Works and The Animal Behavior Center, LLC (Lara Joseph). And not to forget another helpful one! Karen Pryor Clicker Training School.




I'm the same age and would actually love to become a trainer, except I'm not a very big fan of people in general.... I can be considered shy and introvert, but I'm fine in public and I do enjoy helping people! I just don't like being around people for extended periods of time...




Here is Lara Joseph's biography on how she got into animal training.... which I find rather amusing as I've known her since she first got into birds! She walked into a pet store to buy a pooper scooper for her dog and walked out with one very expensive "white cockatiel"! Which turned out to be a cockatoo! LOL We're not close, but we have met and it's amazing to see what she's come from (a "horrible" impulse buyer ) to an amazing and fantastic trainer! To be honest, I envy her! She has an amazing setup for her flock and she has learned so much!

https://larajoseph.wordpress.com/category/biography/