Animal Caretakers
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.
Common Job Titles
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeIdentify signs of animal distress, illness, or behavioral changes through daily monitoring of animals in kennels, shelters, zoos, or aquarium settings.Developing
- Hands-onPerform grooming tasks including bathing, clipping, nail trimming, and brushing using specialized equipment such as clippers, grooming shears, and slicker brushes while ensuring animal safety and comfort.Developing
- Hands-onHandle animals of various sizes and temperaments during care activities using appropriate restraint techniques, muzzles, and handling gloves to ensure safety of both animal and caretaker.Developing
- KnowledgeApply feeding schedules and dietary requirements for diverse animal species following veterinary recommendations and organizational protocols.Developing
- Hands-onOperate aquarium maintenance equipment including filters, pumps, UV sterilizers, and testing kits to maintain water quality parameters such as pH, ammonia, nitrate, and dissolved oxygen levels.Developing
- Hands-onExecute cleaning and disinfection of animal enclosures, cages, and habitats following sanitation protocols and safety guidelines to prevent disease transmission.Developing
- KnowledgeDocument animal care records including feedings, treatments, behavioral observations, and intake/discharge information using facility record-keeping systems and software such as Kennel Link or pet management applications.Developing
- MindsetEngage with animal owners and the public regarding animal care practices and well-being demonstrating customer service orientation and effective communication skills.Developing
- KnowledgeCompare animal behavior patterns against normal baselines to detect health issues coordinating with supervisors or veterinary staff when abnormalities are observed.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate enrichment activities and exercise routines to promote physical and mental well-being across species including domestic pets, exotic animals, and aquatic life.Developing
Annual wage data for Animal Caretakers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
277,300
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $24,500 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $46,480 |
| Workers on average earn | $34,750 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
- Administrative3.1/5
- English Language3.1/5
- Education and Training2.6/5
- Administration and Management2.5/5
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings