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
- Aquarist
- Dog Groomer
- Groomer
- Kennel Technician (Kennel Tech)
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
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Animal Caretakers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
277,300
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $24,500. 25th percentile: U.S. $28,870. 50th percentile: U.S. $33,470. 75th percentile: U.S. $37,160. 90th percentile: U.S. $46,480. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| 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)
Skills & Requirements
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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- CEEJS The Pet Groomer's Secretary
- DaySmart Software 123Pet
- DaySmart Software Appointment-Plus
- Envision Pet Grooming
- Groom Pro
- Groomsoft
- K9 Bytes K9 Koordinator
- Kennel Link
Tools & Equipment
- Air purifying respirators
- Algae scrapers
- Ammonia test kits
- Animal cages
- Animal clippers
- Animal crates
- Animal handling gloves
- Animal handling sleeves