What are some of the different working conditions one might encounter?

Answer 1

Animal caretakers may work indoors or outdoors. They must get used to animals and should not mind
cleaning up after them. Their work may involve lifting heavy animals and equipment. They may have to drive
a station wagon, van, or light delivery truck to pick up and deliver pets. Their work involves dealing with
people, so workers should be friendly and courteous. Many pet care workers work 40 hours a week. Some
must also work or be on call evenings and weekends.
Animal breeders and technicians work in all types of facilities, from barns and pens to private homes or
housing facilities.
Zoo administrators work long and exhausting hours. They may take paperwork home with them, stay at
the zoo through the night nursing a sick animal, or get up in the middle of the night to meet a pair of rhinos
arriving at the airport. They must pay close attention to detail and have great patience. Animal curators,
veterinarians, and zoologists have the satisfaction of working with and learning from the animals. The
director works under a great deal of pressure.
The working hours for animal trainers vary considerably, depending on the type of animal, the performance
schedule, and whether travel is involved. For some trainers, such as those who work with show horses,
hours can be long and quite irregular. Except in warm climates, animal shows are seasonal, running from
April or May through mid-autumn. During this time, much of the work is conducted outdoors. In winter,
trainers work indoors, preparing for warm-weather shows. Trainers of aquatic mammals, such as dolphins
and seals, must feel at ease working around water. The physical strength required depends on the animal
involved, and animal trainers usually need greater than average agility.
Working conditions for pet groomers can vary greatly, depending on the location and type of
employment. Many salons and pet shops are clean and well lit, with modern equipment and clean
surroundings. Others may be cramped and dark. Groomers need to be careful while on the job, especially
when handling flea and tick killers, which are toxic to humans. When working with any sort of animal, a
person may encounter bites, scratches, strong odors, fleas, and other insects. He or she may also have to deal
with sick or bad-tempered animals. Groomers who are self-employed can work out of their homes. Many
people covert their garages into work areas. Some groomers buy vans and convert them into grooming shops.
They can drive to the homes of the pets, which many owners find convenient. Groomers usually work a
40-hour week and may have to work evenings or weekends. If they work any overtime, they are compensated
for it. Those who own their own shops or work out of their homes, like other self-employed people, work very
long hours and can have irregular schedules. Other groomers may work only part-time. Groomers are on
their feet much of the day, and their work can get tiring when they have to lift and restrain large animals.