Guest Post: 5 Jobs For Dog Lovers

5 Jobs Dog Lovers Should Investigate But Likely Haven't

To misquote Will Rogers, can you honestly say, "I never met a dog I didn't like?" Owners, of course are a different matter, but behind every cool nose and beneath every scruffy coat there beats the heart of a loyal companion and boundless love. And in this time of economic upheaval, dog lovers are finding the chance to pursue their passion for these lovable mutts while simultaneously paying the bills. You don't have to be a trained veterinarian or vet tech to follow a career you will love either. Here are five areas worth investigating, most with minimal training or short internships to gather the necessary skills.

Pet Product Sales Rep

This can be either commission based or salaried. Reps are needed to visit veterinarian offices, dog shows and other events, and sales to pet stores. Direct selling can be done as an independent by networking locally and selling at farmer's markets and pet parks. As an independent, you are free to go where the dogs are to demonstrate toys, and pass out sample treats. With a product line you believe in and your natural love of dogs, this can be quite lucrative.

Dog Maintenance

This is a catch-all for several jobs and many can be combined in an area with low demand to make a real independent business.

Pooper scooper and on-site grooming - busy pet owners soon find the chore of cleaning yards becomes overwhelming and there is little time to transport their little darling to a groomer. By combining services and keying on customer schedules, a clientele of happy pet owners creates a stable, long-term income stream.

Vacation and temporary boarding - either as a formal kennel or an informal word-of- mouth arrangement. Many dog owners struggle to find inexpensive, overnight or over- weekend accommodations for their mutts.

Walking/dog park services - these can include transportation for vet appointments and a range of other ideas revolving around a dog's need for exercise and the owner's need for convenience.

Training - Every dog needs to know the basics of "come, sit, stay" and how to behave on a leash. Combining baseline training with other services adds value.

In-House Services

Besides mobile grooming (which can also be set up at dog events) dogs with special needs benefit from massage and behavioral training at home. Certifications are available, and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers is a good place to learn more. An internship or volunteer work also adds credibility when offering your services. Areas of specialization include Dog Behavior Consultant and Certified Dog Trainer. Other programs exist and can be taken online; Animal Behavior College is one.

Show Dogs and Talent Promoters

Ever wonder how that beautiful dog got on your calendar? Well, when a photographer or casting agent needs a dog, they go to a talent agent. Dogs do not necessarily have to be highly trained but by having a network of four-footed talent and by managing things like transportation, you become a valuable resource in the commercial community.

Professional Dog Handler

Someone who not only trots along with a dog in the ring, but manages all aspects of presenting a show-dog at an event. There are also private working dogs handlers. This is a newer area, and a growing one! Sniffer dogs of all kinds are in great demand, both in private security and to meet the needs of the public at large. One example can be found at K-9 Solutions (a company that does private drug sweeps with their dogs). You can get your animal police-dog certified and act as a local affiliate for the company.

Get Creative and Do What You Love

In most cases, job seekers don't see the opportunities available to work with man's best friend. It starts with networking - talk up your interest at pet shops, dog parks and whenever you go to a vet's office. For sales work in the pet industry, you will have to get a solid resume (with dog pictures included) and apply as you would for a “regular” job. Otherwise, look for a way to get your foot in the door by volunteering at your local animal shelter or interning with someone you trust. The best bet for interning to start your own business is to find someone who isn't local enough to become your competition later - they will be happy to have the help and won't be reluctant to train you.

Brendan Cruickshank is the Vice President of Client Services for Job Search Engine. He has been in the online job search and recruiting industry for the past 8 years. He is regularly quoted on topics in employment and jobs trends in publications such as the Wall Street Journal, Forbes and US News & World Report.