Lions are one type of exotic animal that animal trainers work with.
Working with exotic animals (such as monkeys, apes, lions and tigers) can be a rewarding, exciting and---at times---dangerous occupation. While not all positions require that you earn a college degree, in all scenarios you will have to undergo extensive training, and a knowledge of zoology, marine biology, animal science and related fields can be beneficial. Some of the most common careers with exotic animals include zookeeper, animal trainer/handler and veterinarian.
Zookeeper
Zookeeper is a blanket term that refers to any number of individuals who care for animals at zoos, aquariums and other animal parks. Typical responsibilities include feeding animals, cleaning tanks and cages, and monitoring animal behavior. In addition, some zoos may require that you give talks and guided tours to educate visitors about the different animals on display and the habits they originally came from. According to the American Association of Zoo Keepers, some zookeepers go on to specialize in caring for specific groups of animals, such as elephants, great apes, big cats, reptiles or exotic birds. In most instances, no college degree is required, as training is done on site in accordance with the specifications of a specific animal park. However, more specialized zookeeper positions may require higher education (particularly if the position requires performing veterinary care).
Animal Trainer/Handler
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most trainer/handler positions require at least high school diploma, though some may require a bachelor's degree (or higher). While most trainers work with common, familiar animals like dogs and horses, others specialize in working with more exotic ones, like lions, chimpanzees and parrots. Trainers may teach animals to obey commands, perform tricks and even communicate. With other exotic animals, like cobras and crocodiles, the trainer's (or, more appropriately, handler's) job is not teach, but to control. Animal handlers show off these animals by holding them and interacting with them, with their primary goal being to ensure that the animals and any nearby people remain safe. According to the wildaboutcats.org, animal parks, circuses and film studios are some of the largest employers of animal trainers.
Veterinarian
Veterinarians are responsible for diagnosing and treating animal diseases and other ailments. According to wildaboutcats.org, some vets who specialize in exotic animals work in veterinary centers and make on-call visits to animal parks and homes with exotic pets, while others work exclusively for specific animals parks. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, if you are considering a veterinary career that involves exotic animals, you must earn a D.V.M., or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, from an accredited institution.
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