What's a Dog Writer?
A dog writer sounds like just about the cutest job in the world, doesn't it? Well, a dog writer is pretty much just a person who writes about dogs. It can be for any reason, whether they're reporting about dog shows, tips for breeders or raising a dog, or any other sort of story revolving around dogs. The term didn't even exist until the Dog Writers Association of America penned it in 1935.
The DWAA is an association much like the Romance Writers of America, or the Author's Guild. There, other dog writers can build a community with other dog writers.
The DWAA is an association much like the Romance Writers of America, or the Author's Guild. There, other dog writers can build a community with other dog writers.
What does a Dog Writer make?
Dog writers, like all writers, do not make a set salary per year. Their payment depends on their work, the publication/company that hired them, and their experience. In 2012, the lowest a dog writer (or "pet writer", as the website calls it) was about $28,610. The highest? Over $100,000. The average rested at about $55,000.
But a dog writer can be anyone who's written a one-time article about dog care in a city newspaper to the reporters of every dog show that happens within the year; the DWAA even accepts minors into their association, whether paid or unpaid.
But a dog writer can be anyone who's written a one-time article about dog care in a city newspaper to the reporters of every dog show that happens within the year; the DWAA even accepts minors into their association, whether paid or unpaid.
What do I need to know to become a Dog Writer?
As long as you have a firm grasp of writing, you are eligible to become a dog writer.
Many dog writers are journalists, so they would have the proper education in that field. Others are also veterinarians or other people with animal-related degrees. Some are just dog owners who love to talk about their dogs. The education level varies and is not necessarily important; but if a dog writer is trying to publish a book about a specific breed of dog or veterinary tips and care guides, they ought to have proper training in that field.
The DWAA also offers advice and workshops for other dog writers, regardless of skill.
Many dog writers are journalists, so they would have the proper education in that field. Others are also veterinarians or other people with animal-related degrees. Some are just dog owners who love to talk about their dogs. The education level varies and is not necessarily important; but if a dog writer is trying to publish a book about a specific breed of dog or veterinary tips and care guides, they ought to have proper training in that field.
The DWAA also offers advice and workshops for other dog writers, regardless of skill.
Some Notable Dog Writers
Some notable dog writers, taken from the DWAA's Hall of Fame page:
Mary Bloom
Mary R Burch, PhD
Eve Adamson
Ranny Green
Steve Dale
Mary Bloom
Mary R Burch, PhD
Eve Adamson
Ranny Green
Steve Dale