What qualifications do you need?
I have a degree and worked for the SPCA for almost seven years. I graduated as a Certified Dog Trainer and Behaviour Counsellor from the Dog Academy of the San Francisco SPCA.
What sort of person does the job suit? Compassionate, though not afraid of aggressive dogs. Those who grew up with dogs have a great advantage.
What's the best way into the industry? Try volunteering as kennel keeper, dog walker and class assistant with a Dog Academy Certified Trainers at Hong Kong SPCA, and you will learn a lot.
What work hours do you keep? Mostly unsociable hours - evenings and weekends.
Is there a clear career path? There is a clearer path overseas because there are training opportunities, unlike in Hong Kong. It is a very specialised skill. Otherwise, if you like animals in general there are many related careers, like kennel keeping, animal boarding, dog walking, pet sitting, grooming, etc.
