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Is being a dolphin trainer dangerous?

By Sarah Smith

Daunting and probably dangerous, no? In fact, dolphin training can be quite dangerous. Dolphin trainers spend many hours per day in cold, fifty-five degree water. The press is rife with stories of trainers working with dolphins and whales (especially orcas) injured and killed on the job.

Why should I be an animal trainer?

An animal trainer knows how to teach dogs, horses, or even marine animals to display certain behaviors or keep them from exhibiting others. Animal trainers help animals become accustomed to human contact and teach them to respond to commands. They may work with show animals, service animals, or family pets.

How much do dolphin trainers get paid?

Dolphin Trainer Salary Range The Dolphin Research Center indicates that entry-level trainers typically earn between $18,000 and $20,000 per year and typically work a second job to support themselves. Experienced trainers can earn $25,000 – $40,000 per year and land full-time jobs that offer medical insurance.

Do dolphins like being touched?

Even though equipped with a huge smile and a seemingly forever-harmonious disposition, dolphins and whales are wild animals. Always remember this fact. DO NOT TOUCH the dolphins. If the dolphins want physical contact with people, they will initiate it.

What is the salary of a marine mammal trainer?

Salary Ranges for Marine Mammal Trainers The salaries of Marine Mammal Trainers in the US range from $18,160 to $57,170 , with a median salary of $30,328 . The middle 60% of Marine Mammal Trainers makes between $30,334 and $38,743, with the top 80% making $57,170.

What is the average salary for a marine mammal trainer?

$31,874 per year
Average Salary for a Marine Mammal Trainer Marine Mammal Trainers in America make an average salary of $31,874 per year or $15 per hour. The top 10 percent makes over $49,000 per year, while the bottom 10 percent under $20,000 per year.

What skills are required to be an animal trainer?

The career requirements are lax, but you need a skill set that includes speaking, listening, critical thinking, decision making, time management, problem-solving, and customer service skills as well as physical stamina, compassion, and patience.