Animal Caretakers

Also Called: Aquarist, Dog Groomer, Groomer, Kennel Technician (Kennel Tech)

What Animal Caretakers do

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.

  • 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.
Industry Areas:

Renewable Resources and Energy

Training Program Areas:

OCT-Only Renewable Resources & Energy • Petroleum Technician • Urban Forestry

Expand For Additional Details

Work Context

  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Contact With Others
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable
  • Work With Work Group or Team

Tools

  • Pet grooming products
  • Water testing and sampling kits
  • Veterinary nail trimmers or cutters
  • Electric hair clipper
  • Laboratory ultraviolet UV sterilizers

Technology

Data base user interface and query software
CEEJS The Pet Groomer's Secretary
Microsoft Access
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Calendar and scheduling software
Appointment-Plus
Petschedule

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Monitoring
  • Active Listening
  • Coordination
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Reading Comprehension

Knowledge

Business
customer service
administrative services
Arts and Humanities
English language

Education

  • 64% High school diploma or equivalent
  • 14% Associate's degree
  • 13% Bachelor's degree

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

  • Conventional (Organizer)
  • Realistic (Doer)

Work Styles

  • Integrity
  • Dependability
  • Self Control
  • Attention to Detail
  • Cooperation
  • Stress Tolerance

Values

  • Relationships
  • Support
  • Independence

Abilities

  • Verbal
  • Endurance

This is what Animal Caretakers across the country typically make.

$11.15 / hour
$23,180 /year

Entry Level

$15.00 / hour
$31,200 /year

Median Level

$21.67 / hour
$45,080 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Bright

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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