How to Become an Animal Behaviorist

Should I Become an Animal Behavioral Specialist?

Animal behavior is the study of the developments, behavioral causes and functions of animals’ actions and relationships. Specialists in this field observe and analyze animals to determine the reasons for their behavior, which may be attributed to evolutionary traits or physical environment.

They may carry out this work in the field, sometimes at great distances or remote locations, and in offices and laboratories. Fieldwork may also require atypical hours, depending on the habits of the animals being studied. Office work can also require more than 40-hour workweeks and include nights and weekends. Those who work in close physical proximity to animals run some risk of injury, or illness depending on the health of the animals.

Career Requirements

Sources: Animal Behavior Society, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*Net OnLine

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The Animal Behavior Society (ABS) states that animal behavioral specialists can be educated in multiple disciplines, including zoology, psychology, animal science or biology. Several schools offer undergraduate programs specifically in animal behavior. The interdisciplinary curriculum typically combines coursework in biology and psychology. Coursework may also include mammalogy, evolution, entomology, animal-plant interaction, ornithology (the study of birds), primate behavior and invertebrate zoology. Students may also have to complete a cooperative learning experience or independent research project, depending on the program.

Success Tip:

• Volunteer. Aspiring animal behavioral specialists can benefit from volunteering at local animal shelters or veterinary clinics during college. They might also serve as assistants to professional specialists. Volunteering can help a student gain first-hand experience as well as help him or her stand out on graduate school applications.

Step 2: Complete Graduate Study in Animal Behavior

Most jobs in animal behavior require graduate degrees; in fact, the ABS reports that employers most often require a doctorate. Master’s and Ph.D. programs in animal behavior typically involve more in-depth study of the same topics presented in undergraduate animal behavior programs. Students may also have the opportunity to focus on specific areas of interest, such as ethology or conservation. A thesis is usually required for the master’s degree program, whereas students in the Ph.D. program complete dissertations.

Success Tip:

• Participate in an internship. Internships in animal behavior are available through zoos, aquariums, government agencies, animal shelters, museums and other institutions. Participating in an internship can help an aspiring animal behavioral specialist develop his or her skills outside of a classroom environment and may be required for graduation, depending on the school. Additionally, completion of an internship is mandatory for admission to a post-doctoral training program, should a student choose to pursue one further along his or her education path.

Step 3: Consider a DVM Program and Post-Doctoral Training

Another path to becoming an animal behavioral specialist is to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and complete a residency. This can be completed in addition to a Ph.D. program or as an alternative, and specialists who pursue this path are known as veterinary behaviorists. The DVM program typically lasts four years, after which point students can enroll in a clinical animal behavior residency that tends to last three years. Residents learn to diagnose and treat behavioral problems in dogs and cats, as well as studying behavior in lab animals, exotic pets, birds, horses and livestock. Residents usually complete clinical rounds, attend seminars and teach veterinary students during the program. Most residencies require completion of an animal behavior research project that could be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Step 4: Choose a Career Path

Animal behavioral specialists may find jobs at all degree levels. Those with bachelor’s or master’s degrees may find work as educators with museums, zoos and aquariums. They may also find employment as research assistants at academic or private institutions, government agencies, aquariums, museums and zoos.

According to the ABS, most animal behavioral specialists work as researchers or instructors on college campuses. This typically requires a Ph.D., but those with master’s degrees may teach at 2-year colleges. Another option – mostly for Ph.D. graduates – is to work at private research institutes or government laboratories. Specialists with Ph.D.s or DVMs could also work as curators or researchers at zoos, museums and aquariums.

Step 5: Consider Certification

Veterinarians can become board certified through the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB) after meeting certain qualifications. To apply for the certification exam, veterinarians must complete an internship and an ACVB-approved residency. Other requirements include publishing a scientific paper in a peer-reviewed journal and writing three case studies. Candidates who are accepted must successfully complete the 2-day exam to receive certification. Additionally, the ABS grants the Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist credential to specialists who meet education and experience requirements.

Step 6: Continue Education

Animal behavioral specialists may find increased job opportunities by developing skills throughout their careers, and attending continuing education events hosted by professional organizations, such as the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. These events cover topics like dominance in dogs and wolves, canine behavior and fatigue, animal emotions and ethology. Depending on the agency a specialist obtains certification through, continuing education may be required on a regular basis for certification renewal.

Dina Fantegrossi

Table of Contents

What’s the difference between a trainer or a behaviorist?

The major difference between the two seems to lie in their individual goals for the dogs they work with.

Dog Behaviorists

For a Behaviorist, the goal is to assess each dog’s individual emotional problems and help to modify the behavior though reconditioning and positive reinforcement. Behaviorists encounter dogs that have already developed some type of negative behavior. They seek to identify and treat the root cause of the behavior; kind of like therapists for dogs.

Common problems behaviorists address include severe aggression with bite history, destructive behaviors and phobias. Determining the emotional root of the behavior is key to finding the right course of treatment.

Can a behaviorist prescribe drugs?

In general, no, so they often work closely with veterinarians. Additionally, most veterinarians can refer you to a good behaviorist or trainer (or vice versa).

Most behaviorists will warn against choosing a new family dog based solely on aesthetics. Sometimes a perfect match may be made with the last dog an adopter would have thought to choose. Temperament, personality and lifestyle have much more to do with a successful adoption than size or looks. As for breed, well, dogs will be dogs. Any breed has the potential to become a loving pet or a holy terror.

Dog Trainers

Dog Trainers focus on different aspects of canine behavior. A trainer is more like a teacher or coach. They equip dogs with the tools they need to perform in a variety of situations, from basic obedience to agility and complex services with the military and law enforcement.

Do they ever work together?

Definitely. Although that behaviorists and trainers have different goals for the dogs they work with, the two professions often work hand in hand in order to help troubled dogs. If a trainer recognizes emotional issues (such as fear aggression in dogs) they will often refer the dog to a behaviorist if the issue is beyond her comfort level. Often for trainers, a red flag that a dog needs the care of a behaviorist is failure to respond to typical positive reinforcement techniques like treats or play.

Both also stress that the cooperation of the owner in carrying on the training is vital to success, much like continued diet and exercise after sessions with a personal trainer is vital to weight loss.

Trainers and Behaviorists each serve vital functions in strengthening the human-canine bond. Whether a dog has suffered emotional damage and is in need of behavioral therapy, or a pup is chosen to undergo training as a service dog to a wounded veteran; both professions are helping to make this world a better place for dogs and people alike.

Should I Become an Animal Behaviorist?

Animal behaviorists may focus on companion and domestic animals, such as dogs and horses, or they may concentrate their studies on animals in the wild. Behavior topics can include what causes certain behaviors, why the animal exhibits that behavior and how the particular behavior influences the behavior of other animals.

Some animal behaviorists are self-employed, while others can work in animal care, academia or related settings, like a zoo. Animal behaviorists who work in the field to observe animals in their natural habitats may be subject to harsh physical conditions and isolation. Those who work closely with animals can risk illness or injury.

Career Requirements

Sources: University Programs, MSPCA-Angell, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*NET OnLine

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree

Bachelor’s degree programs in animal behavior are available, but some students may choose to major in broader fields of life science, such as zoology, biology or ecology. Courses in biology, chemistry, psychology, physics and mathematics are usually the basic requirements for such programs. Animal behavior courses can be included as elective choices, with subjects including behavioral ecology, neuroendocrinology and animal cognition. Upper-level credit might be earned through internships and/or research projects.

Success Tips:

• Participate in an internship or volunteer experience. Even employers for entry-level jobs might prefer applicants who have experience working with animals in a position related to behavior. Humane societies and zoos are possible locations for one to be a volunteer or intern.
• Complete research experiences. This option is important for those planning on earning a graduate degree in animal behavior. Not only might this experience help when applying to a program, it might also be a valuable experience that assists one when completing a thesis or dissertation.

Step 2: Earn a Graduate Degree in Animal Behavior

Programs that lead to a master’s degree or a Ph.D. require advanced courses in animal behavior topics, plus research projects in the form of a thesis for a master’s degree and a dissertation for a Ph.D. Graduate-level courses might include evolution, genetics, neurobiology and physiology (in the context of behavior), wildlife conservation and advanced animal behavior seminars. Another graduate degree that may lead to a career in animal behavior is the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or D.V.M. Some graduates choose to practice their knowledge of animal behavior in a clinical environment, while others conduct research in a similar fashion as those with a Ph.D.

Success Tip:

• Earn credits as a teaching assistant. Even if programs do not require teaching experience to complete a degree, they may highly recommend earning credits this way. Options might be to give class lectures or assist in field courses or labs. Teaching experience is a way for students to learn relevant skills for future careers as postsecondary teachers.

Step 3: Find Employment

Those with a bachelor’s degree in animal behavior might find employment opportunities at zoos as zookeepers, assistant zoo directors or zoo directors. Humane societies hire animal behavior technicians and specialists for companion animals and look for people with at least the equivalent of a 2-year education in the field.

Research is also a common career choice for an animal behaviorist with an advanced degree. Researchers are employed at universities, state and federal agencies and private institutions. Topics of research at some universities include connections with animal behavior and conservation biology, evolution of antipredator behavior and primate socioecology. Teaching is usually a requirement of those who conduct research under an academic institution. This position is usually for holders of Ph.D. or D.V.M degrees.

Step 4: Consider Veterinary Board and Specialty Certifications

Becoming board certified is an option for veterinarian behaviorists and is supported by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. The process involves internships, residencies through collaborating universities, publishing original research in the field, writing case reports and passing an examination. Those who are certified are listed by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and are sought after by pet owners wanting to address behavioral issues in their companion animals. Another option is to obtain specialty certification as a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist. This designation is offered through the Animal Behavior Society to individuals from various professional disciplines.

There are many animal-related degree programs for students hoping to find future employment in the animal industry. It also is possible to major in an area that is not specifically animal-related (such as marketing, business administration, or education) and to combine that course of study with a minor in an animal-related area.

The most popular animal-related degree programs are offered at many universities and can lead to a broad range of careers.

Animal Behavior

Animal behavior programs are generally graduate-level courses of study students can pursue after completing an undergraduate degree in biology, psychology, animal science, or a related field. Animal behaviorists generally achieve a master’s degree or doctorate in the field. Coursework may include etiology, biology, ecology, anatomy & physiology, zoology, animal science, psychology, and statistics.

Graduate programs in animal behavior are offered at U.C. Davis, Arizona State University, and a few other U.S. colleges. It is more common for colleges to offer advanced degrees in biology or psychology with a concentration in animal behavior.

Animal Science

Animal science majors pursue a course of study that usually focuses primarily on the management of livestock species such as cattle, horses, pigs, goats, and sheep. The study of companion animal species is included to some degree in many programs.

Coursework may include topics in behavior, production, meat science, reproduction, genetics, nutrition, ration formulation, agricultural marketing, biology, chemistry, and statistics. Animal science graduates can work in many fields or pursue graduate studies in veterinary medicine, reproduction, nutrition, etc. Animal science programs are offered by many colleges and universities.

Biology

Biology majors study a variety of topics such as microbiology, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, ecology, genetics, immunology, development, anatomy, and physiology.

A biology degree is particularly versatile and can provide a path to dozens of animal-related careers or graduate-level studies depending on the specific courses an undergraduate chooses to pursue. Nearly all colleges and universities offer a biology degree, and it is also a very common graduate offering.​

Dairy Science

Dairy science majors study dairy cattle management topics including milk production, nutrition, herd health, reproduction, genetics, and marketing. Students who graduate from these programs are qualified to work as dairy farmers, dairy managers, or in other related dairy positions.

Top dairy science programs are offered at the University of Wisconsin, the University of Georgia, Mississippi State University, Texas A&M University, and several other institutions across the U.S.

Equine Science

Majors in equine science, the study of horses, study equine management topics including equine exercise physiology, reproduction, anatomy & physiology, behavior, nutrition, training methods, and topics in business management or marketing.

Some equine science programs include significant hands-on riding and competition experience in various disciplines. Equine science programs are offered by many colleges and universities; an equine science minor also is a popular option for those studying animal science or biology.

Poultry Science

Poultry science programs focus on poultry management topics such as egg production, meat production, reproduction, anatomy and physiology, genetics, nutrition, ration formulation, biotechnology, business management, and marketing.

Graduates from poultry science programs can work as egg producers, meat producers, poultry farm managers, veterinary pharmaceutical sales reps, or other related positions. Poultry science degrees are offered by the University of Georgia, Texas A&M, and Auburn University, among others.

Veterinary Technology

Veterinary technology majors study a variety of topics relating to animal health, disease transmission, anatomy, physiology, and proper use of medical equipment. Veterinary technology graduates are eligible to sit for the national licensing exam which grants them certification as veterinary technicians.

Graduates from veterinary technology programs may work as veterinary technicians, veterinary pharmaceutical sales representatives, and related positions.

The 21 AVMA-approved veterinary technology programs that grant a four-year bachelor’s degree include Purdue University, Michigan State University, the State University of New York, and California Polytechnic University. There also are 191 AVMA-approved programs with two-year degrees.

Zoology

Zoology programs may focus on topics such as general zoology, marine biology, wildlife biology, ecology, behavior, nutrition, reproduction, cell biology, developmental biology, chemistry, physics, and statistics.

Zoologists are qualified to work in zoos, in research positions, in wildlife conservation organizations, or related positions.

Zoology degrees are offered at the University of Florida, Michigan State University, Auburn University, and North Carolina State University, among many others. Most schools also offer graduate-level study in the field of zoology to those who have completed undergraduate degrees in zoology or a closely related field such as biology, animal science, etc.

There are different paths that a person can follow in order to become an animal behaviorist. The route that an individual chooses to take greatly influences the jobs that the person can end up applying for.

If someone has a certain type of animal behaviorist job that he or she is wishing to obtain, it is best to determine what the exact requirements are to obtain the job; this will help in determining the exact type of training that will be needed.

Going to College to Earn a Degree

How to become an animal behaviorist?

No matter the job position that a person wants to fulfill as an animal behaviorist, it is likely that he or she will have to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. The exact degree can vary; however, most people who enter into this line of work pursue degrees that focus on animal behavior, zoology, and/or biology.

It is important to note that the job duties of animal behaviorists vary and are dependent on the training that a person receives. Some animal behaviorists help pet owners who have misbehaving animals.

Others work for zoos, while others go out into the wild and study animals in their natural habitats so that a deeper understanding of why humans behave the way they do can be obtained. Depending on the job that a person wants to have, specializations in different lines of training will have to be obtained such as in psychology or animal science.

Earning a Master’s or Doctorate Degree

With a bachelor’s degree, it is likely that individuals will be able to obtain some type of entry-level job as an animal behaviorist. These jobs can often be found at zoological parks. Some people may even be able to secure a job through a private organization that will supply on-the-job training. In most instances, if a person wants to pursue a lifelong career as an animal behaviorist, it is best to extend one’s education beyond getting just a bachelor’s degree. Master and doctorate degrees are available in fields relating to animal behavior.

Earning a PhD or Becoming a DVM

A great way to earn a doctorate degree as an animal behaviorist is to complete some type of veterinary school program. In doing so, an individual can end up holding the title DVM which stands for doctor of veterinary medicine; this type of degree allows the graduate to practice medicine alongside studying the behavior of animals. On a master’s level, PhDs are also available for students to earn; this type of advanced education allows students to take part in animal behavior research, expand their skills, and work alongside leading professionals. All of this will help a person to become more employable as an animal behaviorist.

Becoming Professionally Certified

Lastly, after earning some type of degree, persons wanting to become animal behaviorists will find it very beneficial to become professionally certified. Professional certification is not a requirement to carry out the duties of an animal behaviorist; however, such certification can open many employment doors.

There are a number of different organizations and associations that offer certifications to people who want to become members, so it is best for animal behaviorists to search around for associations that they believe they will best fit into. In order to be accepted as a member into the associations, generally, applicants must demonstrate a high level of educational competency. Many associations will want to view applicants’ resumes as well as ask them to pass administered tests.

Animal behaviorists or animal behavior specialists are people who observe animals and figure out why they act as they do.

Animal behavior specialists can have different levels of education.

They can specialize by choosing to focus on certain animals. For example, they may become a canine specialist.

Or, they might focus on many animals by becoming a veterinary behaviorist.

In order to become an animal behavior specialist, many people get a bachelor’s degree. Some even earn a graduate degree and consider voluntary certifications. They also must continue to learn throughout their career.

However, there are many jobs that an animal behaviorist can have. And not all of them require graduate degrees or a lot of experience.

Taking a course like the Canine Specialist Distance Learning Course at the Stratford Career Institute can help get your career as a dog specialist started.

So how do you become an animal behaviorist?

Choose a Career Path

Animal behavior specialists can find a number of jobs at various degree levels working at a zoo, an aquarium, veterinary office, or a private institution.

A good way to help figure out what career is best for you is by volunteering and interning at organizations such as veterinary clinics and animal shelters. This can help you decide if you want to take a job as canine specialist or go to school to eventually earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

Bachelor’s Degree

If you decide that your career goals require that you get a bachelor’s degree, then you have many options such as zoology, psychology, animal science, or biology.

Consider a Graduate Program

After completing your bachelor’s degree, getting a further graduate degree can open up more career paths. This can be a master’s degree, a Ph.D. or a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. All of these programs and degrees have a variety of education requirements and take different lengths of time, so you should consider which program is best for you and for your career goals.

Certifications

While earning a certification is voluntary and up to you, having one can help assure people of your qualifications to work with their animals.

The Animal Behavior Society certifies that an animal behaviorist meets the ethics, education, and experience required by the society. There are two levels of certification with different requirements for experience and education. More information about certifications can be found on the Animal Behavior Society’s website.

Vets can also be certified by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.

Continue Learning

It is important that an animal behavior specialist never stops learning, regardless of your degree. This can be done by attending special events and conferences as well by keeping up with new research in your field.

The growing field of veterinary care offers a wealth of career opportunities for people interested in animal medicine. An animal behaviorist provides an essential service and is one part of the spectrum of comprehensive animal care.

What is An Animal Behaviorist?

An animal behaviorist serves an important role in the field of animal medicine. Behaviorists use their unique training and skillset to study animal behavior and appropriate behavior modification techniques. Assessing the behavior of an animal is an important part of determining whether the animal’s environment is the healthiest possible for the animal’s physical and mental well-being.

Typically, an animal behaviorist works closely with domestic animals and pets to ensure a safe environment for the animal and its caregivers.

An animal behaviorist’s typical duties can include working with pets to correct inappropriate behavior; studying an animal’s current behavior patterns to find the ideal home environment for them and working to curb negative behaviors without the use of inhumane disciplinary measures.

How Much Can Animal Behaviorists Make?

While an animal behaviorist may work exclusively with domestic animals, they are also utilized in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries to provide care to wild animals.

For example, an animal behaviorist who works with animals in captivity can use their skills to make sure those animals are comfortable and healthy in their environment.

Behaviorists can also work closely with communities who have a large population of wild animals.

By working with community leaders and residents, the animal behaviorist can give tips to residents on how to avoid wild animal confrontations as well as work on modifying wild animal behavior so they do not pose a threat to the community and its residents.

How Do I Become an Animal Behaviorist?

Choosing to become an animal behaviorist opens up the opportunity for a rewarding and potentially lucrative career.

Currently, there is no federal or state requirement for becoming an animal behaviorist. However, interested parties may seek independent certification through a number of organizations in order to enhance their resume and increase desirability.

Because veterinary medicine is such a competitive field, it’s recommended to seek certification before attempting to apply for jobs.

Before you can seek certification, however, you must have a strong background in veterinary medicine. Qualified candidates should also obtain a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as Zoology, Animal Psychology, Biology, or Animal Sciences.

After completing a bachelor’s degree, students must seek a graduate education that can result in a master’s degree or a doctorate, depending on the student’s specialization interests and final career goals.

To enhance your experience and skillset, those interested in becoming animal behaviorists should apply for internships where they will work closely with animals. An internship will provide hands-on experience that is invaluable to anyone interested in a career in veterinary care.

How Much Does an Animal Behaviorist Make?

There are a wide variety of career options for the animal behaviorist. While this career can be a potentially lucrative job opportunity, it’s not expected that the entry-level behaviorist will make more than around $35,000 per year.

However, the potential for growth and job advancement is great. Qualified animal behaviorists can make up to $90,000 annually depending on the position and/or organization they work for.

On average, a typical salary for the animal behaviorist is hard to quantify but can be anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000 per year.

Becoming an animal behaviorist requires extensive schooling and a passion for animals. Because veterinary medicine is a continuously growing field, there are no shortage of jobs for the animal behaviorist. With the proper schooling and a commitment to the health and well being of animals, an animal behaviorist can expect a positive job outlook and a rewarding career in the field of veterinary care.

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Animal behaviorists, also called ethologists, can work in a wide variety of fields such as animal training, academic research, teaching, publishing, and advertising.

Animal Behaviorist Duties

Animal behaviorists apply principles of animal behavior science while studying how animals interact with each other and their environments. They may research an animal’s methods of communication, instinctual responses, learning methods, psychology, and group interaction skills.

An applied animal behaviorist compiles a case study to determine how an animal’s problematic behavior developed. Their goal is to investigate whether the behavior is a normal one being exhibited at inappropriate times or if it is the result of previous negative experience. To resolve the problem, the behaviorist may suggest various forms of treatment including conditioning, behavior modification, and training.

Animal behaviorists in academia may give lectures to students, supervise lab activities, and conduct and publish their own research projects. They may also collaborate with other researchers and travel to observe animals in the wild if relevant to their studies.

Career Options

Many animal behaviorists work in the area of applied animal behavior, primarily training domestic animals and assisting with the modification of behavioral problems. Applied animal behaviorists may work with companion animals, livestock, laboratory animals, and wildlife. Many animal behaviorists who work in the companion animal training fields are self-employed.

Animal behaviorists with a doctorate may work at colleges or universities as professors and researchers. Additional research opportunities that do not necessarily require a Ph.D. can be found with private health companies, laboratories, the federal government, zoos, aquariums, and museums.

Other career paths for animal behaviorists include media-related options such as working in broadcasting, film, writing, and advertising.

Education and Training

Animal behaviorists generally have a background in biology, psychology, zoology, or animal science. Usually, animal behaviorists pursue an undergraduate degree in one of these areas before seeking an advanced degree in biology or psychology with a concentration in animal behavior. Advanced coursework at the graduate level tends to include learning theory, comparative and experimental psychology, and physiology.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) offers board specialty certification to veterinarians through its American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB). Certification involves a two-year residency program under the supervision of a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and a comprehensive board exam.

The Animal Behavior Society (ABS) offers certification as a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) to members who have completed an advanced degree (Masters or Ph.D.) in the behavioral sciences and can document at least five years of practical experience in the field.

Dog trainers also work as animal behaviorists, and while they may not necessarily have advanced degrees, they do tend to have a strong background in canine learning and conditioning techniques. Many are certified through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) or other national groups.

Animal Behaviorist Typical Salary Range

The salary an animal behaviorist earns can vary based on factors such as the type of employment, job location, years of experience, and level of education.

According to SimplyHired.com, the national average salary (as of January 22, 2019) for an animal behaviorist is $69,751, though the salary varies by location, as professional jobs in large cities with high living costs tend to pay more.

Job Outlook

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not separate out data specifically for animal behaviorists, the outlook for career growth in related fields is expected to be fairly solid. Animal care and service positions are expected to grow at a rate of about 22 percent over the decade from 2016 to 2026, while agricultural and animal science positions will grow at a rate of about 7 percent over the same period, on par with the average profession.

The public’s growing interest in animal behavior, specifically as it relates to their own pets, may also push this specific niche career path to grow at an even higher rate.

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Animal behavior therapists study the behavior of domesticated and wild animals. They work to solve behavior problems or help animals acclimate to new surroundings. Many work as independent consultants, helping people train family pets. Others work for educational, conservation or government organizations and teach or conduct research.

Education

A wide range of animal-related or veterinary degree programs are available to prepare you for a career as an animal behavior therapist. Whichever degree program you look into, make sure it is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Some animal behavior therapists start out by becoming registered veterinary technicians, which requires a two-year associate degree program similar to a nursing degree in human medicine. Registered veterinary technicians can provide training to clients of the veterinary hospital where they work. Others pursue degrees in zoology, wildlife biology or veterinary medicine, all of which qualify them for positions at zoos, conservation groups, universities and research facilities. Many also hold board certification. You’ll need a doctorate for most teaching and research positions.

Patience and Compassion

As an animal behavior therapist, you’ll likely work with animals who are scared or confused, and who might act out aggressively. You’ll need to recognize these behaviors as defense mechanisms and respond to them in a way that puts the animal at ease. When training family pets, you might encounter formerly abused animals who fear humans, or dominant pets reluctant to relinquish control to their human companions. When working for zoos, refuges or research facilities, you might work with formerly wild animals unsure how to act in captivity. Training these animals and teaching them to trust humans can be a slow and complicated process.

Communication Skills

Though you’ll spend a good deal of your time interacting with animals, you need excellent people and communication skills as well. If you work with pet owners, you must be skilled in instructing them how to relate to their pets. If you work for a zoo, aquarium or animal refuge, you can also give tours, lead classes or deliver presentations to the public. If you work for a university or research facility, you’ll likely be required to develop teaching plans, instruct students and write reports and academic papers describing your findings.

Physical Fitness

Working with animals is often as demanding physically as it is mentally and emotionally. You’ll spend much of your time standing, walking or running, and may have to pick up large animals or lift heavy pet carriers or cages. You might also have to physically restrain or control an animal while training it. Trying to walk a 100-pound Great Dane on a leash, for example, can cause physical strain if the dog is uncooperative. You’ll also need quick reflexes to respond to unpredictable behavior, whether you’re training someone’s prize show poodle or working with wild elephants at a wildlife refuge.

An animal behaviorist typically studies the roots of the behavior of all animals, from the smallest single cell organisms to the largest mammals and everything that falls in-between. Because there are so many different animals and factors contributing to their behaviors, such as environment and evolution, there are several highly specialized areas of practice for the animal behaviorist.

Animal behaviorists seek to answer four notable questions which were inquired by esteemed animal behaviorist, Niko Tinbergen. These questions are utilized by behaviorists as a guide for studying the effects of a wide range of factors on animal behavior. Tinbergen asked the following:

An animal behaviorist’s typical day is filled with more than just play.

What is the cause of the behavior or trigger for displayed behavior?

• How did this behavior develop over the animal’s lifetime?

• What function(s) does this behavior serve?

• How did this behavior evolve over time?

These questions are very similar to those asked by examiners of human behavior, but it is much more difficult to get to the root of what causes animal behavior without being able to communicate with the subjects in study. Techniques have been improved over time, however, and the study of animal behavior has even led to multiple advancements in understanding human behavior.

How Do They Do It?

When behaviorists consider the questions posed by Tinbergen, they examine the physical environment of the subject along with its relationship to the other creatures living in its habitat. Observing how the subject interacts with its surroundings unlocks clues to how the animal survives and has survived over time. This can include how its food and home is found and protected from predators. The way its relationships are formed with mates, leading to reproduction and nurture for their offspring, is also examined.

Researchers often find that the causes of these behaviors tend to be reactions to external stimuli or an animal’s chemical composition along with neural configurations. The causes for development of behavior over a lifespan are found by examining the subject’s genes and experiences. The function of a behavior can be assessed by analyzing the purpose it has in assisting in survival and reproduction. Investigating patterns of behaviors over generations reveals findings regarding the gradual evolution of an animals’ behavior.

Types of Animal Behaviorists

Those who enter the natural environment of their desired subject are called ethologists. Ethologists spend their days observing, documenting, and studying animals by crossing the threshold into the home and world of the subject being studied. They observe and document the subject’s reactions to potential mates or competition for mates, responses to threats and predators, and the processes the subject undergoes to maintain their lifestyle by making themselves a protected home and gathering food.

These scientists are not only able to understand behavior through observation, but can also take what they learn in a natural habitat to create a pseudo habitat in a zoo or wildlife refuge for endangered species. By doing so, they can adequately supply these animals with what’s needed to combat the species’ dwindling numbers. Creating these environments also allows for continued research and observation.

Finding the keys to an animal’s behavior is often performed within the laboratory, where theories are tested through the conduction of experiments to stimulate a reaction and observe the resulting behavior. Others within the lab focus on genetic, neurological and physiological factors that contribute to behavior. These lab-based behavior researchers are called psychobiologists or biopsychologists.

Applied animal behaviorists usually focus on behavioral problems of pets and livestock in homes, zoos, animal shelters, and on farms. Some have private practices in which they are called upon to help train and get to the root of behavioral problems for the sake and happiness of both the pet and its owner by working with the animals and showing their owners how to modify any problematic behavior.

How Can Someone Become an Animal Behaviorist, and What Doors Can It Open?

In most cases, a career in this field requires more than a Bachelor’s degree. However, a solid background in genetics, psychology, biology, zoology, or ecology can build a great foundation for anyone considering a career as an animal behaviorist. Advanced degrees in Veterinary Medicine, Biology, Zoology, Philosophy and Psychology are preferable for most research and clinical settings. Many animal behaviorists find themselves working for wildlife departments or doing research at universities and veterinary colleges. A PHD is a necessity if teaching at a college level is the career path of choice.

The field and scope of practice is constantly evolving. Those who wish to work with animals typically have available to them a number of research opportunities. Behaviorists are frequently employed by companies studying how certain diseases or drugs being researched can cause changes in behavior. There is a growing need for behaviorists in domestic care. Others may choose to focus their attention on managing the populations of species on wildlife and improving the health and quality of livestock.

The career options for the animal lover are highly varied. A behaviorist can be a veterinarian, a zookeeper, an animal trainer, and more. In some cases, specialists from different areas of practice work together to analyze causes and determine how to create the best environment for subjects. Although their fields of practice vary, they share the same goal of determining what underlying factors contribute to animal behavior, and in turn create numerous advancements for animals and humans alike.

Animal behaviorists study the way that animals behave. They are interested in what causes certain types of behaviors. As an animal behaviorist, you will be fully involved in researching animals. You will have the ability to educate the public using your findings. This profession requires a high degree of education, with most animal behaviorists carrying a doctorate.

Why Become An Animal Behaviorist

Many people become fascinated by animals at an early age. Animals are an important part of the natural world. Non-human animals can sometimes engage in behaviors that can be mysterious, funny, or strange. An animal behaviorist studies the behaviors of animals, including how they find food, how they mate and reproduce, how they survive and avoid predators, the emotions of animals, how animals care for their young, how animals spend their days, and other behaviors.

Animal behaviorists are often employed by research universities. It is here that they may be a part of academic teams such as veterinary medicine or animal science departments, teaching students about animal behavior. They may also work directly with animals, studying care of domesticated animals, production and conservation. Some animal behaviorists work in zoos, aquariums or museums. In this venue, they work as researchers or curators. They educate the general public about animals.

People in this profession tend to specialize in a particular type of animal, such as birds, large land mammals, livestock, or household pets. They may also focus on a particular behavior pattern, such as mating, hunting, or reproduction.
This is a great job for people who love animals, are interested in science and research, enjoy being hands-on and conducting experiments, and want to educate others in their line of work.

Animal Behaviorists should possess the following qualities and skills:

• Love Animals
• Patience
• Compassion
• Good Researcher
• Scientific
• Good Communicator
• Observant
• Critical Thinker

Animal Behaviorist Work Environment

Animal behaviorists work in a variety of settings. Some work in zoos or animal museums. Others are employed in more academic settings, such as universities. Many animal behaviorists start their careers in research. You will be working in a research setting, monitoring the behavior of animals, conducting experiments, developing educational programs and speaking to the public about animals and their behavior. This is a full-time position with regular work hours.

Animal Behaviorist Salary

The median annual salary for veterinarians was $88,770 in 2016 according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. This category includes animal behaviorists.

Salary can vary widely within this field. Some animal behaviorists choose to pursue research and development. Others decide to work in medical diagnostics. The path that a person chooses a career in will determine the salary they receive. A person who has several years of experience may earn a higher salary. These are all factors to consider when thinking about salary for this occupation.

Animal Behaviorist Career Outlook

Employment for veterinarians and veterinarian technicians is expected to grow by nine percent from 2014 to 2024. This category includes animal behaviorists. This rate of growth is about average compared to other occupations in the United States.

Competition for positions in this field is high, with more people wanting jobs than there are positions available. Many animal behaviorists work in research universities, zoos, and other educational facilities. These places often have restricted budgets that may affect their hiring for more animal behaviorists. Staff may have to apply for grants in order to conduct research.

Animal Behaviorist Degree

If you are interested in becoming an animal behaviorist, read below for more information.

Step 1: Undergraduate education. You will need a bachelor’s degree if you want a career in this field. There are many programs to choose from, including biology, ecology, wildlife science, psychology and more. Classes in science will help you gain a strong foundation in this field. It takes four years to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Step 2: Decide a specialty. There are four general fields in animal behavior: ethology, which is a scientific study of animal behavior, closely linked to zoology; anthropology, the study of cultures and their development; comparative psychology, involved in the history, behaviors, and mental processes of various species; and behavioral ecology, the study of how evolution plays a role in animal behavior. Each discipline studies a different aspect of animal behavior, although there is some overlapping. Some specialties are more interested in the psychology of animals, while others are more interested in biology and zoology. Decide which aspects of animal behavior most interest you.

Step 3: Graduate education. Most jobs in this field require a doctorate degree. Many animal behaviorists have a PhD or a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Decide which doctorate program is best for you, apply and enroll in a program. During these programs you will receive more in-depth coursework, as well as work in the field, doing research and working directly with animals. It takes four years to receive a DVM degree from an accredited institution.