Jobs Working with Dogs: 6 Accessible Careers for People with Disabilities

For many, dogs are more than just pets—they’re loyal companions, and sometimes even coworkers! Jobs working with dogs offer unique rewards, from the emotional bond you share with these four-legged pals to the variety of roles available in this growing field.

If you’re a person with a disability, finding a career working with dogs could be the perfect opportunity to combine your love for animals with a fulfilling job.

We explore accessible careers for people with disabilities who want to work with dogs, and how to get started.

Why Working with Dogs Is a Great Option for People with Disabilities

Jobs working with dogs can be both physically and mentally fulfilling. Dogs can provide an incredible sense of comfort and reduce stress. This is why therapy dogs are often used in hospitals, schools, and mental health services. Research shows that interacting with dogs can improve mental health by lowering stress and reducing anxiety levels.

For those with disabilities, this kind of environment could be ideal, combining the benefits of working with dogs and the flexibility that comes with many of these roles.

What’s more, many jobs working with dogs are adaptable. Dog walking, for example, can be a job with flexible hours, while dog training can often take place in a range of settings. These roles are perfect for people with different abilities, as many tasks can be modified to suit the individual’s needs.

6 Jobs Working with Dogs

Let’s explore some popular career paths for people who want to work with dogs. Whether you’re interested in a hands-on role or something more behind the scenes, there’s likely a position to suit your skills and needs.

1. Dog Trainer

As a dog trainer, you’ll teach dogs to follow commands, improve behaviour, or even prepare them for specialised roles, such as service or assistance dogs. This role can be incredibly rewarding, as you help both dogs and their owners develop stronger bonds. Training assistance dogs is a growing field, especially since guide dogs have been improving the lives of people with disabilities for over 90 years.

2. Animal Care Assistant

Animal care assistants help look after dogs in shelters, kennels, or veterinary clinics. Duties often include feeding, grooming, and providing general care. If you enjoy working closely with animals but prefer less direct public interaction, this could be the perfect role. It’s also adaptable for different physical abilities.

3. Dog Walker

Dog walking offers flexibility, and it’s a perfect choice if you prefer being outdoors. Many people with disabilities enjoy dog walking because it allows them to spend time with dogs while setting their own schedule. In the UK and around the world, the pet care market is growing rapidly (6.1% year on year), creating more opportunities for roles like dog walking.

4. Pet Therapist/Assistance Dog Trainer

Working in pet therapy involves training dogs to provide emotional support or assist people with disabilities. This can include training therapy dogs or working with organisations like Guide Dogs UK, where dogs are specifically trained to assist people who are visually impaired. It’s a meaningful and growing career field with many accessible opportunities.

5. Veterinary Assistant or Vet Nurse

If you’re interested in the healthcare side of working with dogs, becoming a veterinary assistant or veterinary nurse may be a suitable path. These roles involve helping veterinarians in caring for dogs and other animals, which can be a fulfilling way to make a difference in animals’ lives.

6. Pet Photographer or Dog Blogger

For those with a creative flair, pet photography or dog blogging could be an ideal option. You’ll capture the beauty of dogs in pictures or write about various aspects of dog care, training, or lifestyle. These roles allow for flexibility and can be done from home, making them accessible for a wide range of abilities. And let’s face it, there will never be too much dog content online!

How to Get Started in a Career Working with Dogs

If working with dogs sounds like the career for you, there are a few ways to get started. Depending on the role, different qualifications or experiences may be needed, but don’t worry—there are plenty of resources available.

Training and Qualifications

For jobs like dog trainers or veterinary assistants, certain qualifications will help you get ahead. Many dog trainers take courses that cover behavioural training and animal psychology. Vet assistants typically complete relevant courses and gain practical experience. Online training is also an excellent option for those who want to learn from home.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering with animal shelters, rescue organisations, or even local dog-walking groups can give you valuable hands-on experience. It’s also a great way to explore different roles to see which one is right for you. Animal care assistants, for example, often start by volunteering at shelters and work their way up to paid positions.

Online Courses

There are plenty of accessible online resources for those looking to enter a career working with dogs. Websites like Udemy and the Animal Care College offer a wide range of courses, from basic dog training to specialised courses in veterinary support or dog behaviour. You can learn at your own pace while hanging out with your own furry companions!

Support and Resources for People with Disabilities in Dog-Related Careers

There are numerous organisations and resources aimed at helping people with disabilities thrive in careers working with dogs. For example, the Access to Work grant provides financial support for workplace adaptations, allowing you to succeed in your chosen role.

Additionally, disability-positive employers are more common in the pet care industry than you might expect. The bond between humans and animals tends to create a more supportive and empathetic work environment.

Another resource to consider is Medical Detection Dogs, which trains dogs to detect medical conditions, such as cancer and diabetes. These roles are not only impactful but also offer opportunities for those interested in health-related fields to work closely with dogs.

👉 Learn more about Grants and Schemes.

Conclusion: Start Your Journey Working with Dogs

Working with dogs offers more than just a career. It provides personal fulfilment, flexibility, and the chance to improve your own well-being. Whether you’re interested in dog training, animal care, or a more creative career path like blogging, there are many accessible roles for people with disabilities.

Are you ready to begin your search for jobs working with dogs? Check out the Careers with Disabilities working with dogs jobs board for all the latest opportunities in your area.

Our Job Seekers Support Hub is packed with advice and guidance for disabled job seekers.

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