ANIMAL CARETAKER

JOB DESCRIPTION

Feed, water, groom, bathe, exercise, or otherwise provide care to promote and maintain the well-being of pets and other animals that are not raised for consumption, such as dogs, cats, race horses, ornamental fish or birds, zoo animals, and mice. Work in settings such as kennels, animal shelters, zoos, circuses, and aquariums. May keep records of feedings, treatments, and animals received or discharged. May clean, disinfect, and repair cages, pens, or fish tanks.

OTHER JOB TITLES

Animal Care Giver (ACG), Aquarist, Dog Bather, Dog Groomer, Groomer, Kennel Attendant, Kennel Technician (Kennel Tech), Pet Groomer, Pet Stylist, Zookeeper

JOB TASKS

  • Feed and water animals according to schedules and feeding instructions.

  • Provide treatment to sick or injured animals, or contact veterinarians to secure treatment.

  • Examine and observe animals to detect signs of illness, disease, or injury.

  • Mix food, liquid formulas, medications, or food supplements according to instructions, prescriptions, and knowledge of animal species.

  • Do facility laundry and clean, organize, maintain, and disinfect animal quarters, such as pens and stables, and equipment, such as saddles and bridles.

ANNUAL SALARY

  • Workers on average earn $12.54/hr. – $26,080
  • Projected Growth (2019-2029) Much Faster than Average (8% or higher)
  • Projected job openings (2019-2029) 54,900

REQUIRED EDUCATION

High school diploma/GED, Associate Degree or Higher

REFLECT ON THE CAREER

After exploring this Professional’s story…

According to O*Net Online, list three occupations related to this role you might wish to explore and tell why.

RESOURCES

O*NET ONLINE

The Occupational Information Network is a free online database that contains hundreds of occupational definitions to help students.

OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK HANDBOOK

The Occupational Outlook Handbook is the government’s premier source of career guidance featuring hundreds of occupations.

MY NEXT MOVE

My Next Move is an interactive tool for job seekers and students to learn more about their career options.

STEP THREE – PLAN

Hopefully you found at least one career that looks interesting to pursue. If you found a lot or none at all, don’t worry! The next step is to make a plan and take action!