What do you think about a career change from white-collar jobs to dog training?
Posted by Allen and Linda Anderson at 1/19/2008 11:02 AM and is filed under Topics in the News,Observations,Articles about Animals 
A New York Times article by Anna Jane Grossman, "A Chorus of Dog Whisperers," (Saturday, December 29, 2007 in the Star Tribune) introduced a growing trend. The article claimed that thousands of people are getting out of corporate life and becoming dog trainers. It says, "In 2007, there were 43,000 animal trainers, with at least 50 percent of whom work with dogs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a number that has almost tripled since 2000."
Of course, it might be love at first bark for new dog trainers but the job has its unique challenges. Dog trainers wind up getting involved in a family's "stuff." Most misbehaving dogs have people problems. How does a dog trainer tactfully deal with that fact of life?
What do you think about a career change from white-collar jobs to dog training? Why are so many people making the switch? Does anyone have before and after stories?
I have to tell you that I switched from "Banking to Barking" 25 years ago and I have never looked back. The satisfaction and joy I get from helping people solve behavioral problems with their dogs, getting started right with a new puppy is amazing. I have control over my destiny, I never dread Monday mornings and I get the honor of keeping dogs in their forever homes. I think if you have a love of animals, a good sense of what makes a business work and are willing to work hard, your can't beat being a dog trainer. As the old saying goes - Successful people find what they love to do and do if for the rest of their lives - the definition of happiness and fulfillment.
Reply to this
Thanks much for your comment about your switch from "Banking to Barking" and how that has been such a good decision for you. We're inspired!
Reply to this