Animal Caretaker

Your Fit

Income

$31K

Preparation

Some

Growth

15.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Animal Caretaker?

An Animal Caretaker is responsible for the daily care, feeding, and maintenance of animals. They work to ensure the health and well-being of animals in various settings, including kennels, zoos, stables, animal shelters, and pet stores.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Animal Caretaker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Animal Caretaker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$23K per year	$28K per year	$31K per year	$36K per year	$45K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $17K below the national average.

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What does an Animal Caretaker do?

Work environment

Animal Caretakers typically work in environments like animal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, aquariums, stables, and pet stores. The work can be physically demanding and sometimes emotionally taxing, involving direct contact with animals, both healthy and ill, and regular cleaning and maintenance of their living spaces.

Quick task list

Feeds and waters animals according to specific schedules.
Cleans and maintains animal habitats and enclosures.
Monitors animal health and behavior, and reports concerns.
Provides basic grooming services like bathing and brushing.
Assists with exercise and play activities for animals.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Zoo and Aquarium Care: Specializing in the care of exotic and aquatic animals in zoo and aquarium settings.
Veterinary Assistance: Assisting in veterinary clinics or hospitals with animal care and minor medical tasks.
Kennel and Pet Boarding Management: Overseeing animal care in boarding facilities.
Animal Shelter Work: Providing care for abandoned or rescued animals in shelters.
Equine Care: Specializing in the care and maintenance of horses.

Description

Animal Caretakers are passionate about the well-being of animals and are dedicated to providing the best possible care. Their role requires a deep understanding of animal behavior and needs, as well as the ability to handle different species with care and compassion. This occupation is not just about loving animals; it also involves understanding animal health, nutrition, and welfare practices.

Good physical stamina is essential, as the job often involves lifting, bending, and performing physical tasks. Animal Caretakers must also be prepared to work in various conditions, sometimes dealing with dirt, odors, and outdoor elements. Communication skills are important, as caretakers often interact with pet owners, veterinary staff, and the public, providing information and education about animal care.

The role can be emotionally challenging, especially when dealing with sick, injured, or abused animals. However, it also offers immense satisfaction from improving the lives of animals and contributing to their health and happiness. Continuous learning about animal care practices, health issues, and species-specific needs is a vital part of this career.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The joy of working closely with animals and contributing to their well-being.
Opportunities to bond with a variety of animals.
The satisfaction of improving the lives of animals, particularly in rescue and rehabilitation settings.

You might make a good Animal Caretaker if you are...

Compassionate and patient, with a genuine love for animals.
Physically fit and able to handle the demands of caring for animals.
Observant and attentive to the needs and behaviors of different animals.
Able to work well in a team and communicate effectively with others.
Emotionally resilient, capable of handling the challenges of animal care.

Pros:

Rewarding work for animal lovers.
Variety in daily tasks and interactions with different animals.
Opportunities for specialization in areas like zoo or veterinary care.

Cons:

Physically and sometimes emotionally demanding work.
Potential exposure to injury from animals or zoonotic diseases.
Often requires working weekends, holidays, and irregular hours.

How to become an Animal Caretaker

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma is sufficient for entry-level positions. Some roles, especially those in specialized facilities like zoos or aquariums, may require additional training or certifications. Post-secondary education in animal science or a related field can be beneficial.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology and Life Sciences to understand animal physiology and behavior.
Physical Education to build physical fitness and stamina.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering at local animal shelters or rescue organizations.
Joining or forming an animal welfare club.
Participating in 4-H programs, especially those involving animal care.

Preparation after high school

Pursuing a certificate or degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field.
Gaining experience through internships or volunteer work in animal care facilities.
Attending workshops or courses on animal behavior, grooming, and care.

More resources

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) - Offers resources on animal welfare and opportunities for volunteering.
National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) - Provides education and certification for pet sitters and animal caretakers.
The Humane Society of the United States - Offers a range of resources for those interested in animal care and advocacy.
Pet Sitters International (PSI) - Offers resources, education, and certification for pet care professionals.

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Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.