Learning To Excel As a Dolphin Trainer Is Rewarding and Fun

As a dolphin trainer you are required to ensure that these marine mammals are active and mentally alert when living in a enclosed environment. Dolphin trainers should ensure that they are fed nutritious meals at the right time and that the water is kept clean. Trainers at zoos and public shows have to provide a running commentary about the habits and interesting tidbits of dolphins. Endurance is the key to becoming an expert trainer.

Here are some tips on becoming a successful dolphin trainer.

What are the job requirements?

A bachelor’s degree is the first preference as there are no undergraduate programs. The subjects should include zoology, marine biology and animal science. Take up psychology as many facilities take applicants that have a degree in psychology.  It is advantageous to complete CPR training and get trained in first aid practices. Certain skills have to be perfected and these include communication, swimming and public speaking. You have to be 18 years or older in order to be a marine mammal trainer.

Become an ace swimmer

You will have to perfect your swimming strokes and move at a moderate pace to keep in good form. Learn to swim underwater and retrieve weights that are about 20-40 feet below the surface.  Practice diving from heights of nearly 30 feet and remember that you may have to take your tests in salt water if you intend becoming a dolphin trainer.

Scuba Diving Certification

Animal trainers can get better jobs if they obtain a certificate in scuba diving. Learn classroom or online learning before you take the tests. You can then learn how to use the scuba equipment when you are in the pool, ocean or lake. Marine mammal facilities require their workers to complete such programs.

Experience is necessary

Initially, dolphin trainers may have to watch other experienced trainers before they are allowed to handle these mammals. The training techniques are taught by advanced trainers in a natural ocean environment or in aquarium settings. Trainers should interact with many types of animals before they start training dolphins. Once the dolphin is comfortable with you around, you can start teaching it acrobatics and perform alongside. Training also includes feeding dolphins and taking care of their medical needs.

Learning to interact with dolphins

By volunteering at different animal care facilities such as aquariums or a wildlife rehabilitation center, trainers learn how to work with other people and care for animals.  Widen your scope of knowledge by training under an expert advanced trainer. Dolphins may try not to appear hurt or ill as this puts them in a vulnerable position with predators. Dolphin trainers should therefore be more vigilant and alert when taking care of them. You should be able to have some rhythm when you teach dolphins certain movements in the water and play alongside them.

Training and apprenticeship

You can look at American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) or American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA). The other places that offer training are Sea World, Kayce Cover, Syn Alia Training Systems, Moorpark College and Dolphins Plus among others.