Animal Caretakers

Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed

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.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $35,360/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$27,250$50,060

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +12.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — much faster than average.

About 74,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

MonitoringService OrientationJudgment and Decision MakingActive ListeningReading ComprehensionCoordinationSpeakingCritical ThinkingWritingSocial Perceptiveness

Top knowledge areas

Customer and Personal ServiceAdministrativeEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingAdministration and ManagementPsychologyMathematicsPublic Safety and Security

Core 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.

• Exercise animals to maintain their physical and mental health.

• Collect and record animal information, such as weight, size, physical condition, treatments received, medications given, and food intake.

• Respond to questions from patrons, and provide information about animals, such as behavior, habitat, breeding habits, or facility activities.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Animal Caretakers?

The median pay for Animal Caretakers is $35,360 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Animal Caretakers?

Employment for Animal Caretakers is projected to change +12.1% from 2024 to 2034 - much faster than average.

What education is typically required for Animal Caretakers?

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

How many job openings are there each year for Animal Caretakers?

About 74,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.