Mental health boost of working with animals evident, ahead of iPET Network appearance at London Vet Show
iPET Network, which develops and awards Ofqual regulated qualifications in the Animal Care and Veterinary Science Sector, says that the welfare benefits of working with animals are evident in the people who come through the training process.
In the 2022 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, 84% of pet owners said that owning a pet improves their mental health, and the same is also true for animal lovers who choose to take the plunge and work in pet industries.
People like Clare Queen Shaw, who left a successful job in catering management to follow her dreams, by studying at the Four Paws Groom School in Cheshire.
"I had spent my youth working my way up, and then they got there and thought 'I don't actually want this, it's not worth the stress and the impact on my health'." Said Clare, who is now a qualified dog groomer.
Clare added: "My biggest fear was not liking dog grooming, this had been my dream for so long and if I didn't like dog grooming I wouldn't have a dream anymore!
"I was also worried that I wouldn't be able to do it. But from that very first morning I knew that I would love it, and all the trainers are so supportive and we all get on so well. It is the best thing I ever did."
Qualified Veterinary nurse Rachel Bean, who consults regularly for iPET Network's first aid related qualifications, can also attest to this.
She added: "Working with animals, caring for them and seeing them recover is incredibly good for the soul.
"Pets rely on us to look after them and care for them, and give us unconditional love, which is a privilege.
"This is a dream job, but it is also a job that all pet professionals should take very seriously. Teaching and learning with iPET Network is a way that pet professionals and would-be animal care workers can demonstrate their commitment to high standards."
Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty, who founded iPET Network, said: "Time and again we see people coming through the training process for whom this step is a lifelong dream.
"Seeing those people go from nervous and unsure, to confident, calm and starting their brand new career is a wonderful journey.
"As Rachel said working with animals really is a privilege, and it is no surprise that people report that their health improves as a result.
"Skills in these industries are in short supply too, so it has never been a better time to start something new, and make that positive first step."
The iPET Network will be at the London Vet Show, which takes place at London's ExCel Centre from November 17 to 18.
Vets and animal professionals can find out more from the awarding organisation about the range of qualifications on offer, become a consultant to help develop and create new qualifications in this industry and how their businesses could benefit from iPET Network's new Professional Development Recognition scheme, which recognises and rewards in-house training at all levels.