Charlotte Grainger 
What can you expect from a career working with animals?
The age-old saying goes, if you find a job you love, you'll never have to work a day in your life. So, what is it that gets your blood pumping? If you adore animals, choosing to work with them is an obvious decision. Luckily enough, there are plenty of ways to get started, regardless of your current skill set or education. Let's take a look at eight perfect options now.
1. Wildlife Biologist
Have you got an inquisitive mind? Pair that with a natural love of animals and you might find that a job as a wildlife biologist suits you. To land this high-powered gig, you will need to have a degree in a relevant field. Some of the subjects you may choose include biology, zoology, ecology, or environmental biology. Combine that with some relevant work experience and you should find that your career path is a breeze.
The average salary is £32,100. This varied career will see you work in a wide range of places, from animals' natural habitats to zoos and conservation centres. You will provide game-changing insights into the animals you work with, while working alongside researchers on studies and projects.
2. Animal Caretaker
Fancy working in a zoo with the lions, tigers and bears? Becoming an animal caretaker — or animal care technician — you have the chance to get up close and personal with these creatures. You can expect to make an average of £18,973 per year in this position, where you will be responsible for preening the animals. That means everything from nail-clipping and grooming to bathing and feeding. You don't need any entry-level qualifications for this one!
3. Dog Walker
Love the great outdoors? If you're a fan of getting out there to stretch your legs, why not make a career out of it. Did you know that you could be a professional dog walker? Dog walkers in the UK make an average of £9.91 per hour. You don't need any credentials to get started in this career. You may want to join a dog walking agency or start your own business and advertise your services. If you do the latter, remember you'll need to register with HMRC and do your own tax returns.
4. Dog Groomer
While we're on the subject of pampered pooches, have you considered this role? Dog groomers can make an average of £20,000 per year. This position is what it says on the tin — you get paid to groom dogs. If that sounds like your bag, there are plenty of courses you can take to help you get started. You may find that the easiest avenue into this career is to intern or start working at an established dog grooming business and learn your trade.
5. Zookeeper
Of course, when you think of working with animals, this role may be the first one to spring to mind. If you can picture yourself taking the reins at a zoo, looking after the animals, reporting any health issues and managing the day-to-day running of the business, this role is for you. To get yourself this top position, you'll first need to gain a degree in zoology, zoo technology, biology or a related field. The average salary is £17,178.
6. Pet Sitter
Looking for a side gig where you can work with animals? Pet sitting could be the answer. When people go on holiday or take a mini-break, they need someone to look after their pets. That means coming into their home, feeding their pets and checking that they are safe. While you don't need any qualifications for this job, building up a solid reputation and client base is vital. You might want to get started by signing up on a website — such as Cat in a Flat — and advertising. You can set your own rates in this role! If you're looking for animal jobs with no experience, don't overlook this easy option.
7. Animal Trainer
Whether it's working with dogs or horses, training animals can be an extremely fulfilling career path. If you want to make an average salary of £21,426 and work directly with your favourite animals, this is the job for you. You may be training animals to do tricks, behave better in public places or become working animals. To get started, the best way forward is to become an apprentice. That means learning from someone who is already established in the field.
8. Veterinarian
What are the best paying animal jobs? Here's your answer. With an average salary of £48,606, becoming a vet is a popular career path for animal lovers. Of course, you can't simply walk into this career. You will need to undertake a five-year degree in veterinary science or a similar subject. Before you can get onto that degree, you will need to prove that you have a strong foundation in science. This is a highly competitive field. If you get the job at the end, you will be caring for animals' health, completing check-ups, administering medication and working from a local surgery.
The Takeaway!
There's a whole bunch of viable options if you want to work with animals and this career is a highly-attainable dream. No matter what your current qualifications and work experience, there will be a way that you can weave your passion into your career. Take the time to consider the options and see which one works for you. You've got this!
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