Animal Systems Pathway
Engage with animals to enhance their well-being, reproductive health, and behavior while promoting overall welfare.
Focus Areas
Careers in the Animal Science Pathway may work with:
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Livestock: By definition, livestock are domesticated animals raised in agricultural settings for commodities such as meat, milk, eggs, or fiber.
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Companion Animals: Domesticated pets that are kept primarily for a person's company, emotional support, or enjoyment are considered companion animals.
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Wildlife: Animals that live in their natural habitats without human domestication or control, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects found in forests, oceans, deserts, and other ecosystems.
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Zoo Animals: Wildlife or exotic species that are housed and cared for in a zoo or similar facility for conservation, education, or entertainment purposes, where their care, feeding, and environment are managed by humans.
Animal science careers are vital to the future as they drive advancements in sustainable agriculture, veterinary medicine, and animal welfare, ensuring food security and improving the health of both animals and humans.
Education Requirements
Education and training requirements for careers in the Animal Science Pathway will range from on-the-job training all the way to a doctorate degree. Visit the websites of colleges or universities you are interested in to see what programs they offer in the area of animal science.
How to Get Started
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Visit a livestock farm: A live or virtual field trip to a livestock farm will allow you to see the day-to-day activities and skills developed by those who work in careers from the animal science pathway.
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Look to the future: As you visit farms or other companion animal sites, ask what challenges are being faced in the industry. Could you help find the solution?
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Take a related class: See if your school has a related class you can take to learn more.
Example Jobs
Animal Nutritionist
An animal nutritionist develops and evaluates diets to ensure proper nutrition for animals, focusing on improving their health, growth, and productivity. They work closely with veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners to create feeding programs tailored to specific species, often conducting research on ingredients and supplements.
How many other careers are related to a career as an Animal Nutritionist?
Veterinarian
A veterinarian diagnoses and treats medical conditions in animals, providing care through surgeries, vaccinations, and routine check-ups. They also offer guidance to pet owners or farmers on animal health, nutrition, and preventive care, working in clinics, farms, or research environments.
How will the day-to-day tasks of a veterinarian vary depending on their area of focus?
Dairy Farmer
A dairy farmer manages the care and milking of cows, ensuring they are healthy and productive. They oversee the farm's daily operations, including feeding, milking, and managing milk production for sale, while maintaining equipment and adhering to industry regulations.
What do you think are the similarities and differences between a dairy farmer and farmers of other livestock species like sheep, goats, beef cattle, or poultry?
Dog Trainer
A dog trainer teaches dogs specific behaviors and skills, using techniques such as positive reinforcement to improve obedience and address behavioral issues. They work closely with dog owners to provide guidance and support, helping to strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner while ensuring the dog's safety and well-being.
What life experience led Chrissy to a career as a dog trainer?