This has been a subject that's been on my mind since I moved away from CA almost 4 years ago. It took me a little over a year for me to figure out what I wanted to do. I simply haven't figured how I want to make a living at it yet. The what is working with or helping animals. When this was first realized I toyed with the idea of becoming a vet tech, but was dismissed a year later. Since then I've been in a bit of a quandary as to how. The reason being is that the work traditionally anchors you someplace. Yes there are mobile alternatives but the work often dictates where you go. I'm hoping to find something where I can retain the freedom of choice to go where I want to when I want to while still finding employment there. Within reason of course. Since I still haven't figured it out I've decided that I when I start this life I will then volunteer at animal sanctuaries in my travel paths. This should help me see my way clear.
I hope.
I wonder if some of us are destined to have unclear paths? I kind of think so. Doesn't help a bit but I know where you're coming from.
ReplyDeleteTime will answer that question. I've always been good at knowing what I want or at least figuring it out in short order. This is the first time in my life that I can honestly say "I don't know for sure".
ReplyDeleteSteve, no better place to get a taste of the animal rescue world than at Best Friends in Kanab UT. I'm sure you know about them. I worked for them some during the summers, and worked for them online (in the CompuServe days). Now have my own 501(c)3 at www(dot)grrrvillage(dot)org. Let me know if you have any questions.
ReplyDelete--Jool
Thanks again Jool. Best friends is exactly the place I had in mind because of their volunteer program. I have tons of questions, but I'm still figuring out which ones I need to be asking. ;-) I'll start asking those questions soon enough.
ReplyDeleteSteve- I am totally enamored with animals also having just lost my German Shepherd mix...I still am involved as a partner in raising Clydesdale horses...but it's tough making money with animals...you mentioned vet tech which is an option either a formal schooling or off the street on the job training...not alot of money but they are in demand...or maybe dog training or become an alpaca farming consultant...good karma helping animals but you may need to hit the lottery to put food on the table...it shouldn't be that way!! Good luck
ReplyDeleteSteve- Since my German Shepherd mix passed away I've gotten involved with GSD Rescue organizations and they are very serious and professional...also partner on a farm raising Clydesdales....but making money with animals is tough...but you'll generate good karma at least...vet tech...dog training...not too many avenues to earn money...maybe become an alpaca farming consultant??@@!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Dust. I'm in my high paying career ATM and using it to pay off my remaining debt. I've learned how to live with much less and be happier for it. It'll take some time to figure out what works with how I want to live my life.
ReplyDeleteI love and grew up with GS' myself. I would have one now but lacked the space which is why I got my beagle (my first one too). I'm looking at possibly getting a GS when I hit the road finally. We'll see.
My dear sister quit a very boring job at the P.O. and looked into becoming a vet tech. She had to quit because she couldn't stand watching (let alone performing) any procedure that hurt an animal. I tried to explain to her that temporary pain was many times necessary to help the animal in the long run. I know what she meant though, as I used to work as an Allied Health tech at a children's hospital and so many times I had to bite my tongue or turn away as the docs and nurses did what they had to do.
ReplyDeleteI'm not worried nor am I a stranger to blood and guts. Thanks for the reminder Anon. There are a lot of other who are also thinking about this same change but haven't considered this aspect of it.
ReplyDeleteI have amassed quite a list of animal rescues for work camping and volunteer while I'm on the road. Maybe our paths will merge and you can join me for a couple of gigs.
ReplyDeleteEvery bit helps ... Thanks Cherry!
ReplyDelete