Animal Husbandry Specialist Career Profile
- Career Name - Animal Husbandry Specialist
- Category - Health / Livestock & Farming / Zoos, Aquariums, Museums and Theme Parks
- Skills Required - Life skills 40% - Career skills 60%
- Basic School Subjects - STEM, Language, Business Management
- Minimum Required Education - High School Certificate
- Species Worked With - Pets, Farm Animals, Wildlife
- Kind of Interaction with Animals - Direct
Do you want to work as an animal husbandry specialist?
READ: This page helps you to read about the career and the info you need to decide on whether this is indeed the career you want to follow.
RESEARCH: Learn about the skills required and minimum subjects to enter this career, as well as the places where you can study further after school.
PREPARE: If you want to plan and prepare for the career, then join the OZT Community! Members have access to tools, while chatting with other students and experts from around the world. Prepare to be amazed!
CAREER MENTOR
UPDATED:
22 February 2025
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What is an animal husbandry specialist?
An animal husbandry specialist is a professional who manages the breeding, rearing, and caring for animals, especially livestock. They ensure the animals’ health, productivity, and welfare
Alternative Names
Animal husbandry specialists are known by several names, including:
- Livestock managers
- Livestock technicians
- Animal science technicians
- Animal caretakers
- Animal husbandry technicians
- Livestock production specialists
- Animal husbandry professionals
- Animal production technicians
These professionals are involved in the management of animals in various sectors such as agriculture, farming, veterinary science, and conservation. They may have different titles depending on their specific roles and responsibilities within these sectors.
Career Categories
The Animal Husbandry Specialist career can be found in the following career categories:
- Health
- Farming & Livestock Management
- Zoos, Aquariums, Museums and Theme Parks
What does an Animal Husbandry Specialist do?
Groups of animals an Animal Husbandry Specialist works with
Animal husbandry specialists work with a wide range of animals, depending on their specialisation and the industry they work in. The common animals they work with include:
Livestock:
This includes cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and poultry such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese.
Horses:
Animal husbandry specialists can also work with horses, which can include activities like breeding, feeding, and managing their health.
Aquatic Animals:
In some cases, animal husbandry specialists work with aquatic animals like fish, shrimp, and even marine mammals like dolphins and whales in captive settings.
Companion Animals:
Some specialists may work with companion animals like dogs, cats, and small mammals (like rabbits and guinea pigs) in various roles, including veterinary care, breeding, and general husbandry.
Wildlife:
In conservation settings or zoos, animal husbandry specialists may work with wild animals to ensure their well-being, reproductive success, and overall health.
Overall, the types of animals an animal husbandry specialist works with can vary widely based on the specific needs of their job or industry.
What is the level of Interaction with the Animals?
- Directly - A person works directly with the animals with some form of physical contact at least once every few days
- Indirectly - The career doesn't require direct or physical contact at all.
What does an Animal Husbandry Specialist focus on?
They ensure the animals’ health, productivity, and welfare. Animal husbandry specialists may work in various sectors, including farming, veterinary science, and conservation. They often have a background in agriculture, biology, or veterinary medicine.
With whom does an animal husbandry specialist work?
Animal husbandry specialists work with a variety of professionals, depending on the specific context in which they are employed. Some of the key professionals they may collaborate with include:
Veterinarians:
Animal husbandry specialists often work closely with veterinarians to ensure the health and well-being of the animals under their care. They may assist veterinarians during medical examinations, surgeries, or other procedures.
Animal Scientists:
Animal husbandry specialists may work with animal scientists who study the biology, behaviour, and nutrition of animals. These professionals help inform best practices for animal care and management.
Farm Managers:
On farms, animal husbandry specialists may work under the supervision of farm managers or owners. They collaborate to ensure the efficient and profitable production of livestock or other animals.
Laboratory Technicians:
In research or laboratory settings, animal husbandry specialists may work with technicians who assist in conducting experiments or studies involving animals.
Conservationists:
In wildlife or conservation settings, animal husbandry specialists may collaborate with conservationists to help conserve and protect endangered or vulnerable species.
Animal Caretakers:
On a day-to-day basis, animal husbandry specialists may work alongside animal caretakers who help with feeding, cleaning, and general care of animals.
Overall, animal husbandry specialists work within a team of professionals, each contributing their expertise to ensure the health, welfare, and productivity of the animals they manage.
What are the daily tasks of an Animal Husbandry Specialist?
Animal husbandry specialists perform a range of tasks on a daily basis, depending on their specific role and the type of animals they work with. Here are some common daily tasks:
Feeding and watering animals:
This includes providing the correct type and amount of food and water to ensure the animals are healthy and well-nourished.
Cleaning and maintaining animal living spaces:
Animal husbandry specialists ensure that animal housing areas are clean and sanitary, which is essential for preventing the spread of diseases and maintaining animal welfare.
Monitoring animal health:
This includes observing animals for signs of illness or injury and taking appropriate action, such as notifying a veterinarian or administering medication.
Breeding and reproduction management:
Animal husbandry specialists may be involved in breeding programmes, which can include tasks such as monitoring Estrous cycles, assisting with artificial insemination, and ensuring that animals give birth safely.
Handling and restraining animals:
This includes safely and humanely handling animals for procedures such as medical exams, vaccinations, or grooming.
Record-keeping:
Animal husbandry specialists often keep detailed records of animal health, breeding, and production metrics, which are important for tracking trends and making informed management decisions.
Training and educating others:
In some cases, animal husbandry specialists may be responsible for training and educating others, such as farm workers or veterinary students, on best practices for animal care and management.
Overall, animal husbandry specialists play a critical role in ensuring the health, welfare, and productivity of animals in a variety of settings, including farms, research facilities, zoos, and conservation organisations.
With what kind of tools and technology does an animal husbandry specialist work?
Animal husbandry specialists work with a variety of tools and technology to help them perform their tasks efficiently and effectively. Some common tools and technologies used by animal husbandry specialists include the following:
Feeding equipment:
This can include feeders for distributing food to animals, automatic feeding systems, and measuring devices to ensure accurate portion control.
Watering systems:
These may include automatic waterers or watering troughs to provide a continuous supply of clean water to animals.
Cleaning equipment:
Animal husbandry specialists use tools such as shovels, brooms, and power washers to clean animal housing areas and equipment.
Medical equipment:
This can include basic medical supplies such as thermometers, syringes, and bandages, as well as more advanced equipment like ultrasound machines or surgical instruments.
Reproductive technology:
In breeding programmes, animal husbandry specialists may use tools such as estrus synchronisation drugs, artificial insemination equipment, or ultrasound machines for pregnancy diagnosis.
Record-keeping software:
Many animal husbandry specialists use specialised software programmes or apps to record and track data related to animal health, breeding, and production metrics.
Livestock handling equipment:
This can include tools such as chutes, gates, and headlocks to safely handle and restrain animals during procedures like vaccinations or medical exams.
Environmental monitoring equipment:
In some cases, animal husbandry specialists may use equipment to monitor environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, or ventilation in animal housing facilities.
Genetic testing equipment:
In breeding programmes or research settings, animal husbandry specialists may use genetic testing equipment to analyse DNA samples and assess genetic traits in animals.
Overall, the tools and technology used by animal husbandry specialists help them to efficiently manage and care for animals, monitor their health and well-being, and make informed decisions to optimise animal production and welfare.
The working Environment of an Animal Husbandry Specialist
Where does an Animal Husbandry Specialist work?
Animal husbandry specialists can work in various indoor and outdoor environments, depending on their specific roles and the industry they work in. Here’s an overview of the typical working environments and places of employment for animal husbandry specialists:
Farms and Ranches (Indoor and Outdoor):
- Indoor: Animal husbandry specialists may work in barns, stables, or other indoor facilities on farms and ranches. This includes areas where animals are housed, fed, and cared for. Indoors, they might also work in offices for administrative tasks, data entry, and record-keeping.
- Outdoor: In outdoor environments, animal husbandry specialists may work in fields, pastures, or outdoor housing areas where animals graze or roam. This includes tasks such as moving animals between pastures, repairing fences, or managing irrigation systems.
Research Facilities and Laboratories:
- Indoor: In research facilities or laboratories, animal husbandry specialists may work indoors in climate-controlled environments. This includes areas where animals are housed in controlled conditions for research purposes. They may also work in laboratories or offices for tasks like data analysis, writing reports, or conducting meetings.
Veterinary Clinics or Hospitals:
- Indoor: Animal husbandry specialists working in veterinary clinics or hospitals often work indoors, assisting veterinarians with animal exams, surgeries, or treatments. This includes tasks like restraining animals, administering medications, or assisting with medical procedures.
Zoos and Wildlife Sanctuaries:
- Indoor and Outdoor: In zoos or wildlife sanctuaries, animal husbandry specialists may work both indoors and outdoors. They might work indoors in animal enclosures or care facilities, or outdoors in exhibit areas or naturalistic habitats. Tasks can include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, and providing enrichment activities for animals.
Conservation Organisations:
- Indoor and Outdoor: Animal husbandry specialists working in conservation organisations may work both indoors and outdoors. They might work indoors in offices or laboratories, or outdoors in the field, monitoring wildlife, collecting data, or working on conservation projects.
Educational Institutions:
- Indoor and Outdoor: In educational institutions such as universities or vocational schools, animal husbandry specialists may work indoors in classrooms, laboratories, or research facilities, and outdoors in agricultural fields or animal husbandry training facilities.
Overall, the working environments for animal husbandry specialists can vary widely based on their specific roles and the industry they work in. Whether indoors or outdoors, their main focus is on managing and caring for animals, ensuring their health, welfare, and productivity.
What is the average annual salary of an Animal Husbandry Specialist?
The average yearly salary or wages for an animal husbandry specialist can vary significantly based on factors such as location, level of education, years of experience, and the specific industry they work in. Additionally, currency exchange rates and inflation can impact salary levels across different countries and regions.
United States: $32,000 – $65,000 USD
Canada: $35,000 – $70,000 CAD
United Kingdom: £20,000 – £40,000 GBP
India: ₹3,00,000 – ₹8,00,000 INR
Australia: $50,000 – $80,000 AUD
New Zealand: $45,000 – $65,000 NZD
Nigeria: ₦400,000 – ₦1,000,000 NGN
Kenya: KSh400,000 – KSh1,000,000 KES
South Africa: R150,000 – R500,000 ZAR
South America (Average of Argentina, Brazil, and Chile): $10,000 – $25,000 USD
Europe (Average of France, Germany, and Spain): €20,000 – €45,000 EUR
Southeast Asia (Average of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand): $10,000 – $20,000 USD
Can an Animal Husbandry Specialist be promoted?
Promotion levels for an animal husbandry specialist can vary depending on the organization, industry, and individual’s career goals. However, some general progression levels might include:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or related field.
Responsibilities:
Basic animal care and husbandry tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and observing animal health.
Certification:
May not require specific certifications, but relevant certifications in animal care or husbandry can be beneficial.
Education:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or related field.
Responsibilities:
More advanced animal care, supervision of lower-level staff, participation in breeding programmes, and implementation of animal welfare standards.
Certification:
Certifications in specific areas of animal care, husbandry, or management.
Education:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field.
Responsibilities:
Oversee animal care programs, staff training, budget management, and strategic planning for the animal husbandry department.
Certification:
Advanced certifications in animal husbandry management or related areas.
Education:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field. Advanced degrees and extensive experience may be preferred.
Responsibilities:
High-level strategic planning, policy development, and oversight of multiple animal husbandry departments or facilities.
Certification:
Extensive experience and advanced certifications in animal husbandry management or related areas.
What difficulties can an Animal Husbandry Specialist face?
Animal husbandry specialists may encounter various challenges in their profession, including:
Physical Demands:
- Lifting and moving heavy equipment or animals.
- Long periods of standing or walking.
- Working in all weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.
Safety Concerns:
- There is a risk of injury from handling large animals or using machinery.
- Potential exposure to Zoonotic diseases.
- Risk of accidents in outdoor or agricultural settings.
Variability in Working Conditions:
- Working in different environments (indoors, outdoors, farms, laboratories, etc.).
- Changes in daily tasks based on animal health, breeding cycles, or seasonal variations.
Emotional Challenges:
- Witnessing illness, injury, or death in animals.
- Balancing care for animals with farm or business priorities.
Business Management:
- Balancing animal care with the economic demands of the industry.
- Managing personnel, resources, and facilities.
- Responding to market fluctuations and changes in consumer demand.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensuring compliance with local, national, and international regulations for animal welfare, food safety, and environmental protection.
Continuing Education:
- Staying updated on advancements in animal husbandry, technology, and industry best practices.
- Maintaining certifications or licences.
Unpredictable Work Hours:
- Longer hours during breeding or calving seasons.
- Responding to emergencies or health crises outside regular working hours.
Other challenges can include navigating interpersonal dynamics, managing stress, and maintaining a work-life balance. However, these challenges can be mitigated through proper training, support systems, and adherence to industry standards and regulations.
Future growth and Possibilities
The projected annual growth of the animal husbandry specialist job market can vary depending on factors such as regional economic conditions, technological advancements, and changes in consumer preferences. Here are some general trends and possibilities that may influence the future of the industry:
Technological Advancements:
- Automation: There is a growing trend towards automation and precision farming technologies in animal husbandry, which can increase efficiency and productivity.
- Data Analytics: Data analytics and digital tools can help animal husbandry specialists monitor animal health, behaviour, and productivity more effectively.
- Genetic Engineering: Advances in genetic engineering and biotechnology may lead to improved livestock breeds with desirable traits such as disease resistance, growth rate, and product quality.
Sustainable Practices:
- There is increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly animal husbandry practices, which may include reducing the environmental impact of animal agriculture and ensuring animal welfare.
Consumer Preferences:
- Consumers are increasingly interested in animal welfare, organic and free-range products, and the ethical treatment of animals, which may influence industry practices and marketing strategies.
Regulation and Policy Changes:
- Changes in regulations and policies related to animal welfare, food safety, and environmental protection can have a significant impact on the animal husbandry industry.
Globalisation and Market Dynamics:
- The global demand for animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs, is expected to increase, driven by population growth, rising incomes, and changing dietary preferences.
- International trade agreements and market dynamics can also influence the demand for animal products and the competitiveness of the animal husbandry industry.
Workforce Challenges:
- There may be challenges related to attracting and retaining a skilled workforce in animal husbandry, including the need for ongoing training and education and addressing concerns about working conditions and compensation.
Animal Welfare and Ethics:
- Ethical considerations related to animal welfare and the treatment of animals are becoming increasingly important and may influence industry practices and public perceptions.
Which Skills are required by an Animal Husbandry Specialist?
The skills required for a career as an animal husbandry specialist can be divided into two very important groups. The first is the group containing life skills and personality traits, which are the core skills that are necessary or desirable for full participation in everyday life. The second group is career skills, or the specific skills required to allow a person to enter and operate effectively within a specific career. Some or maybe even all of the life skills can assist in strengthening the career skills, and they might even be the same for specific careers.
Life Skills and Personality Traits
Animal husbandry specialists typically exhibit specific personality traits and qualities that contribute to their success in the field. Some of these traits include:
Compassion:
Animal husbandry specialists must have deep empathy for animals and a genuine desire to ensure their well-being and welfare.
Patience:
Working with animals can be unpredictable and may require patience when handling or training them, especially in challenging situations.
Physical Fitness:
The job may require physical strength and stamina to perform tasks like lifting, carrying, and handling animals or heavy equipment.
Attention to Detail:
Animal husbandry specialists must be detail-oriented to monitor animal health, breeding cycles, and other critical factors.
Problem-Solving Skills:
They should be able to quickly assess and address animal health issues or challenges that arise in their care.
Communication Skills:
Strong communication skills are essential for working with other team members, veterinarians, and potentially clients or stakeholders.
Adaptability:
The work environment can change frequently, so adaptability is important for dealing with varying conditions and situations.
Work Ethic:
Animal husbandry specialists often work long hours, sometimes in challenging conditions. A strong work ethic is crucial for maintaining animal care standards.
Collaborative Skills:
Working as part of a team is common in animal husbandry. Specialists should be able to collaborate effectively with others to achieve common goals.
Leadership Abilities:
In roles that involve managing staff or overseeing operations, leadership abilities are important for guiding and motivating team members.
Overall, a combination of empathy for animals, physical fitness, attention to detail, communication skills, and adaptability are key personality traits for successful animal husbandry specialists.
Career Skills
- Good business knowledge
- Excellent animal health knowledge
- Basic customer service skills
- Good health and physical fitness
- Excellent computer literacy
Which Subjects must I have at School to prepare for this career?
Biology:
This subject is fundamental to understanding animal anatomy, physiology, genetics, and basic biological processes. It can also provide insight into the behaviour and interactions of different animal species.
Chemistry:
A basic understanding of chemistry is important for understanding biological processes and chemical reactions related to animal health, nutrition, and production.
Physics:
Physics concepts such as energy, force, and motion can be relevant to understanding the physical aspects of animal husbandry, such as machinery and equipment used in farming.
Mathematics:
Mathematics is important for calculating measurements, quantities, and data analysis related to animal husbandry. Topics such as algebra, geometry, and statistics can be particularly useful.
Knowledge of business and economics can be helpful for understanding the economic aspects of animal husbandry, including market trends, pricing, and management principles.
A high level of language is necessary for further studies and effective communication with those you will work with
The subjects you choose at school are important as they lay the foundation for further studies at college or university. While still at school, it’s also important to learn more about the animals you will work with, as well as gain some experience.
OZT has a list of various tertiary institutions where you can study further, after school. Each of these institutions also have their own Group page on OZT where you will find the exact subjects they require of you to have passed in school. Keep these requirements in mind, and discuss it with your school, guidance counselor and parents to ensure that you are prepared!
What will I need to Study to become an Animal Husbandry Specialist?
Minimum Requirements
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Many animal husbandry specialist roles require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
Associate Degree:
Some positions may require an associate degree (2-year programme) in animal science, agricultural science, or a related field. This can provide a strong foundation for animal husbandry principles.
Bachelor’s Degree:
In some cases, especially for higher-level positions or specialised roles, a bachelor’s degree (4-year programme) in animal science, veterinary technology, agriculture, or a related field may be preferred or required.
Study Focus
Subjects for Further Study:
Biology:
A strong understanding of biology is essential for animal husbandry. This includes courses in animal physiology, anatomy, genetics, and microbiology.
Chemistry:
Knowledge of chemistry can be beneficial for understanding the chemical processes related to animal health, nutrition, and production.
Animal Nutrition:
Courses in animal nutrition can provide insight into the dietary needs and requirements of different animal species.
Animal Behaviour:
Understanding animal behaviour is important for providing proper care and handling of animals.
Veterinary Science:
While not always available at the undergraduate level, courses in veterinary science can be beneficial for understanding animal health, diseases, and veterinary practices.
Advanced Studies (If necessary):
Master’s Degree:
For certain specialised roles or to advance to higher levels of management, a master’s degree (2-year programme) in animal science, veterinary science, or a related field may be beneficial.
Ph.D.:
A Ph.D. in animal science or a related field may be necessary for research or academic positions.
Optional Short Courses:
Animal Handling and Husbandry:
Courses focused on animal handling, safety, and husbandry practices can provide valuable skills and knowledge.
Veterinary Assistant Training:
For those interested in a career working closely with veterinarians, veterinary assistant training courses may be beneficial.
Livestock Production:
Courses specific to livestock production can provide a deeper understanding of the breeding, management, and economics of livestock farming.
Animal Welfare:
Short courses focused on animal welfare and ethical considerations in animal husbandry can be valuable.
Study Duration
The duration of College and Bachelor’s Degrees can be up to 3 or 4 years. Short Courses are usually between a few weeks and a year.
FREE Career Path Plan
If this is your dream career that you want to pursue, then it’s important to plan the way forward.
Why is planning important?
To ensure that you understand the requirements for your career, and that you are always prepared for the next step on the road towards your dream. A preparation path is like a road map to where you want to be.
Possible Paths:
Here is a possible career preparation path for a high school student interested in pursuing a career as an animal husbandry specialist:
1. Attend Career Guidance Sessions:
Attend career guidance sessions to learn about the various career options within animal husbandry and related fields.
2. Research All Possible Careers:
Research different animal husbandry careers to identify the specific role you are interested in pursuing.
3. Explore Educational Paths:
Explore the educational paths available for animal husbandry specialists, such as obtaining an associate degree or bachelor’s degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field.
4. Align High School Subjects:
Align high school subjects with the chosen educational path. Focus on science-related subjects such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Courses in agricultural science or veterinary science may also be beneficial.
5. Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Complete high school and obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
6. Learn About Animals You Will Work With:
Learn about the specific animals you will be working with as an animal husbandry specialist. This can include understanding their anatomy, physiology, and nutritional needs.
7. Align Post-School Path:
Decide whether to enter the job market directly, continue studying at the tertiary level, or start a business.
8. Gain Experience:
Gain experience through volunteering, internships, mentorship programmes, or part-time jobs related to animal care, agriculture, or veterinary science.
9. Pursue Extracurricular Activities:
Participate in extracurricular activities related to animal husbandry, such as joining 4-H clubs, Future Farmers of America (FFA), or other agricultural organisations.
10. Join Professional Associations:
Consider joining professional associations or societies related to animal husbandry, such as the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) or the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
11. Gain Specialised Skills:
Develop specialised skills relevant to the chosen career path, such as animal handling, breeding techniques, or farm management.
12. Network with Professionals:
Network with professionals in the field of animal husbandry, including veterinarians, animal scientists, and agricultural specialists.
13. Enter the Job Market, Finish Tertiary Studies, or Launch a Business:
Depending on the chosen career path, either enter the job market, continue tertiary studies at the bachelor’s or master’s level, or launch a business in animal husbandry.
14. Stay Updated and Pursue Continuing Education:
Stay updated on advancements in animal husbandry, attend workshops or seminars, and pursue continuing education opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
Possible Combined Career Paths
It is possible to sometimes combine two or more related careers. This normally happens when you study and practice a specific main career, but the knowledge and experience gained also help you to have a paying hobby or secondary income career.
Possible Alternatives (there are a lot more):
Stepping stone Careers
A stepping-stone career refers to a job or position that serves as a transitional or intermediate step towards a long-term career goal. Individuals may take on a stepping-stone job as it requires minimum education or finances to enter, or to gain relevant experience and develop skills, or to make professional connections that will ultimately help them progress towards their desired career path.
These interim positions may not be the ultimate or dream job, but they provide valuable learning opportunities and contribute to the individual’s overall career development. Stepping-stone careers are often seen as a strategic approach to building a successful and fulfilling professional trajectory, allowing individuals to gradually move closer to their desired roles or industries.
While an animal husbandry specialist career can be fulfilling in itself, there are also many related careers that someone in this field could transition into if desired. These might include:
Training and apprenticeship
On-the-job training and apprenticeship requirements can vary depending on the employer, the specific role within animal husbandry, and the country or region. Here are some general guidelines for on-the-job training and apprenticeship requirements for someone entering an animal husbandry specialist career:
On-The-Job Training:
- Animal husbandry specialists typically receive extensive on-the-job training to familiarise themselves with specific farm operations, animal care practices, and industry standards.
- Training may include shadowing experienced animal husbandry specialists, attending workshops or seminars, and participating in hands-on activities under supervision.
Apprenticeships:
- Some employers, particularly in larger operations or specialty areas of animal husbandry, may offer formal apprenticeship programmes.
- These programmes can provide structured training, mentorship, and opportunities for hands-on experience.
- Apprenticeships may last from several months to a few years, depending on the employer and the level of training required.
Certifications and Licencing:
- Depending on the region, there may be certifications or licences required for certain roles within animal husbandry.
- Examples of certifications include Certified Livestock Manager, Certified Poultry Technician, or Certified Dairy Specialist.
- Employers may require or encourage employees to obtain these certifications as part of their training and development.
Continuing Education:
- Animal husbandry specialists often engage in continuing education to stay updated on industry best practices, advancements in technology, and changes in regulations.
- This may include attending workshops, conferences, or webinars, or enrolling in relevant courses or programmes.
Safety Training:
- Safety training is a critical component of on-the-job training for animal husbandry specialists.
- This may include training in animal handling techniques, equipment operation, first aid, and emergency response.
Other Considerations:
- In some cases, formal education programmes, such as agricultural colleges or universities, may include internships or co-op placements as part of the curriculum, providing students with practical experience.
- Volunteering or part-time work in animal-related organisations or farms can also provide valuable on-the-job training and hands-on experience.
It’s important for individuals entering the animal husbandry specialist career to seek out opportunities for on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and continuing education to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for their specific role within the industry.
Average level of education of all the people who enter the career
Licenses, Certificate, Registration and Professional Associations
The requirements for licences, certificates, and legal registrations vary depending on the country or region and the specific role or industry within animal husbandry. However, some common certifications and registrations that may be relevant for animal husbandry specialists include:
Certified Animal Care Technician (CACT):
This certification may be offered by animal care organizations and can demonstrate proficiency in animal husbandry, care, and handling.
Veterinary Technician Certification (CVT or RVT):
Depending on the specific role and level of responsibilities, some animal husbandry specialists may benefit from obtaining a certification as a veterinary technician.
Certified Poultry Professional (CPP):
For those working in poultry production, this certification may be valuable in demonstrating expertise in poultry husbandry, care, and management.
Certified Livestock Manager (CLM):
This certification may be required or recommended for individuals managing or supervising livestock operations.
Registered Animal Scientist (RAS):
For those with advanced education and experience in animal science, this certification may be beneficial in demonstrating expertise in the field.
Farmed Animal Welfare Assurance Program (FAWA):
For those involved in animal husbandry on farms or in agricultural settings, certification under FAWA may be required or preferred by certain organisations or regulatory bodies.
It’s important for individuals interested in pursuing a career as an animal husbandry specialist to research the specific requirements and certifications relevant to their industry, role, and region. Additionally, some employers may have specific training or certifications they require or prefer, so it’s important to be aware of these when applying for positions.
Professional Associations
The IFOAM International Animal Husbandry Alliance:
(IAHA) is an informal network of individuals and organisations interested in supporting and strengthening the development of organic animal husbandry.
IFOAM International Animal Husbandry Alliance
American Society of Animal Science (ASAS):
ASAS is a professional organisation for animal scientists, including animal husbandry specialists. They publish the Journal of Animal Science and the Journal of Dairy Science.
American Society of Animal Science (ASAS)
American Association of Veterinary Technicians (AAEVT):
This association provides resources and networking opportunities for veterinary technicians and animal husbandry specialists.
American Association of Veterinary Technicians (AAEVT)
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA):
NAVTA is another professional organisation for veterinary technicians that may be relevant to animal husbandry specialists.
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)
European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP):
EAAP is an association for animal scientists in Europe and may be relevant to animal husbandry specialists.
European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP)
Australian Association of Animal Sciences (AAAS):
AAAS is an organisation for animal scientists in Australia and may provide resources and networking opportunities for animal husbandry specialists.
Australian Association of Animal Sciences (AAAS)
Canadian Society of Animal Science (CSAS):
CSAS is a professional organisation for animal scientists in Canada and may be relevant to animal husbandry specialists.
Canadian Society of Animal Science (CSAS)
British Society of Animal Science (BSAS):
BSAS is a professional organisation for animal scientists in the UK and may be relevant to animal husbandry specialists.
British Society of Animal Science (BSAS)
International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG):
ISAG focuses on animal genetics and may be relevant to animal husbandry specialists involved in breeding programmes.
Where can I study further?
All of the above information will help you understand more about the Career, including the fact that there are different paths to take to reach it. But if you are almost done with High School (Grades 11 or 12), you also need to start thinking about further studies, and WHERE you will study.
See the List of Universities, Colleges and Online Training Academies who offer courses towards animal breeding.
How do I start to prepare for this Career?
If you do decide on following this career, then OZT can assist you in figuring out a path to prepare, as well as help you to gain further knowledge about the career and the animals you will be working with. We do this by offering you FREE career development tools. There are almost a dozen free tools, but these are the three primary ones:
CAREER PATH PLAN
Use the career path plan above on this profile as an example to follow, or to work out your own path.
COST; Free
ACCESS: Open to visitors and Members
SHORT COURSES
Access easy-to-use short courses to make your career preparation easier! The basic information in each course is free, but the rewards can only be unlocked as an OZT member!
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STUDY GUIDE
Get a supercharged study guide that fits into the career path plan! Now that's really upping your preparation game! Join us for free to gain access!
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But, if you are still uncertain about choosing this specific career, and even where to start, then have a look at our special series of WHAT NEXT courses (link below). They take you through all of the questions you might have on how to choose the right career, what to do while at and after school, and even how to start your own business.
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Join us as a special member and learn more about becoming an animal husbandry specialist.
Members of the Platform have special access to:
- Info on the best places where you can study (colleges, universities and online)
- Expertly designed advice to prepare you for the career, and links to places where you can gain valuable experience. For some career experience is necessary, otherwise you wont get the job!
- Top notch info on each of the different species you will work with
- Make friends around the world and share knowledge
- Compete and win points, badges, games, prizes and certificates. Be the best of the best, while you learn and prepare!
If you have decided on being an Animal Husbandry Specialist, please click on the JOIN GROUP button. Members will be directed to the Group, while non-members will be assisted to register first.
If this career is NOT the career for you, then you may return to the MAIN CAREER menu, and search for something different.
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