Tip 3. Work in the industry
Working in the animal care industry is ideal if you are pursuing studies in this field. This way, your job and studies perfectly complement one another. You will be able to apply the knowledge learned in courses to your job as well as obtain the required practical training hours, provided your workplace has been approved.
Whether you are working in the animal care industry or not, let your employer know that you are studying. You may be able to arrange flexible hours at work to make it easier to find study time.
Tip 4. Keep multitasking to a minimum
When you are busy, it is tempting to multitask. You might feel that you are being efficient when you engage in several activities at once. However, the latest research indicates that multitasking is not a sound practice. It actually reduces your efficiency and, in some cases, can even be dangerous. If you are trying to read course material while watching TV or talking on the phone, for example, you will be distracted and not absorb as much information as you would if you were only studying.
Be careful about trying to combine work with study time. If you have actual downtime at work, this may be acceptable at certain jobs. However, do not let studying distract you from essential duties at work. The other issue here is that you cannot give your studies complete attention if you are dealing with customers or work-related tasks. When you multitask, you end up giving less than your best effort at each task. You are better off setting up dedicated times for each activity.
Tip 5. Take care of yourself
Do not let your busy schedule harm your health or well-being. Having a balanced life means eating well, getting enough sleep, and having some time to relax. It can be hard to fit all this in when you are working and studying. However, if you try to do too much, you will end up burning out.
- Make sure you get sufficient rest. Lack of sleep is not only detrimental to your health, but it will also reduce your effectiveness as a student and employee.
- Take breaks. Just as most jobs provide employees with regular breaks, you should also take breaks from study. Even short breaks where you get up, stretch and maybe take a short walk will help keep you refreshed.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise helps you stay healthy and keeps your energy levels high.
- Eat nutritious foods and do not rely on junk foods, caffeine or energy drinks to stay alert. These habits backfire and contribute to burnout in the long run.
- Plan leisure and downtime. Give yourself a little time to kick back and relax, socialise or just do nothing at all.
Tip 6. Practise, Practise, Practise
Unlike many careers, animal care is all about working with living animals. While there is plenty of knowledge to absorb, it is also important to get as much practical experience as possible in the field to build your confidence and to get exposure to as many species as you can.
Even if your job has nothing to do with animals, we recommend trying to get as much practise in handling animals as possible. If time permits, consider volunteering at an animal shelter, offer to pet sit or walk your friends’ dogs or even consider house sitting for other people with animals. There are many online resources where you can offer your services or find people in need of help.
By doing this, when it comes to submitting assessments and having your practical skills signed off, you will be more comfortable and confident in your own abilities when working with animals.
Tip 7. Choose a flexible online course for your animal care or veterinary nursing related course
One of the benefits of online learning is that it allows you to maintain a flexible schedule. Attending traditional classes, in addition to working, makes it harder to plan a schedule. With online courses, however, you can study at home or in any public space with internet access. It is also good to study with an organisation that offers a variety of courses as well as great support to their students.
It is not always easy to balance work, study and other areas of your life.
The above tips can help you create a more productive schedule while still finding time for yourself. It helps to keep your goals in mind. Remember that once you complete your studies, you will be one step closer to starting your exciting career in animal care. Keeping this in mind will help motivate you when things get a bit hectic and challenging.
If you are looking to start a career in animal care we recommend choosing a nationally recognised Certificates in Veterinary Nursing, Animal Care (Animal Studies) or Animal Behaviour and Training,
You can learn more about getting started in the animal care industry or about our qualifications below.
