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Career Exploration

Animal Caretakers

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

What they 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.

On the job, you would:
  • 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.
On the job, you'll need:

Business

  • customer service
  • administrative services

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Basic Skills

  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • communicate by speaking

Endurance

  • exercise for a long time without getting out of breath

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

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

Data base user interface and query software

  • CEEJS The Pet Groomer's Secretary
  • Microsoft Access

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Calendar and scheduling software

  • DaySmart Software Appointment-Plus
  • Petschedule

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Bright.

New job opportunities are very likely in the future. This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

Median Annual Salary: $29,530

Education

High school diploma/GED or associate's degree is usually needed.