Professional Animal Workers (PAWS)

If you have questions or for more information about PAWS Training, please contact Joshua Lamont at 410-554-9444 or by email at Joshua Lamont​.

Program Description

This is a 12-week Partnership Training program taught by an instructor from the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC). The program includes classroom and on-the-job training.

The individual will be trained to work in settings such as:

• Shelters and kennels
• Veterinary offices and hospitals
• Doggie daycare centers
• Independent pet and grooming shops
• Retail pet stores

Training curriculum includes:

• Basic animal care skills – feeding, watering, grooming, bathing, exercising and cage cleaning
• Animal first aid and CPR
• Computer literacy and basic office skills
• Off-campus internship

Program Requirements

An individual must be able to:

• Read at a sixth grade level.
• HS Diploma or GED preferred.
• Remain calm in high stress situations.
• Have the ability and desire to work with ALL types of nonfarm animals.
• Lift up to 40 pounds.

Employment Outlook

Employment opportunities for PAWS are expected to grow much faster than average (9%) by 2032. The average hourly wage in Maryland is $15.

Authorization Requirements

1. Category: WTC Career & Technology Training
   Subcategory: Partnership – PAWS
2. Category: WTC Employment Services
   Subcategory: WTC Training Graduates
3. Category: WTC RTS Support
   Subcategory: OT-PT Back Class

For consumers on the Autism Spectrum add the following item:

4. Category: WTC Autism Services Training
   Subcategory: Autism Support-Group
5. Category: WTC Autism Services Training
   Subcategory: Autism Employment Support-Group

Uniform Requirements

Please list uniforms on the student’s plan. Estimated cost for PAWS Training uniforms is $250. WTC staff will order uniforms.

Sign Language Interpreting

Please include Communication Services on the student’s plan. Estimated cost for sign language interpreting for Deaf consumers is $37,010. WTC staff will arrange this service.

Transportation

Please include Transportation on the student’s plan. Estimated cost for transportation to internships is $225. WTC staff will arrange this service.

IPE Requirements and Estimated Costs

• Service Category: WTC Career and Technology Training
• PAWS Training – $3,583
  
• Service Category: Goods/Services Required for Training or Employment
• Uniforms – $250
• Service Category: Communication Services
• Communication – $37,010
• ​ Service Category: Transportation
• Transportation – $225​

PAWS Handout​