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Animal Caretaker
Career Insights for Animal Care Worker / Manager
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Scorecard
Based on Virginia data
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What they do
An Animal Care Worker or Manager manages animal care and grooming for a retail store that sells pets or for a pet grooming business. May also provide animal care and grooming at a kennel. Works with animals in shelters or rescue organizations. Works primarily with dogs and cats. Assists veterinarians with vaccinations or other procedures; screens people who want to adopt an animal from a shelter and provides information about caring for animals.
$32,426 / year median in Virginia
+11% projected growth
Job Description
Duties Animal Care & Feeding:
Feed and water animals according to scheduled feeding times and special dietary needs. Monitor the health and behavior of animals, reporting any concerns to the shelter management. Provide daily exercise and enrichment for animals as needed.Cleaning & Maintenance:
Clean and sanitize kennels, cages, and common areas to ensure a safe and hygienic environment. Dispose of waste and bedding materials, ensuring all areas are free from contamination. Maintain cleanliness of animal care equipment and supplies.Animal Handling & Behavior Monitoring:
Safely handle and move animals, including dogs, cats, and pocket pets, ensuring their comfort and minimizing stress. Observe and report any changes in the animals' behavior or health to the appropriate staff.Record-Keeping:
Maintain accurate records on animal care, including feeding schedules, behavioral notes, and medical treatments. Assist with the intake of new animals, including taking basic information and preparing animals for adoption or transfer.Customer Interaction:
Provide friendly, courteous, and helpful service to shelter visitors, including potential adopters, volunteers, and donors. Help introduce adoptable animals to prospective adopters, answering questions and providing information about the animal's temperament and care needs.Team Collaboration:
Work closely with shelter staff, volunteers, and other team members to ensure the animals receive optimal care. Assist with transport and general care during veterinary visits, including loading/unloading animals as necessary.Experience:
Previous experience in animal care or shelter work is preferred Familiarity with basic animal health, behavior, and husbandry practices is a plus.Skills:
Ability to safely handle and care for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, and small mammals. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and stand for extended periods of time. Comfortable working in a variety of weather conditions and with animals of all temperaments.Personal Attributes:
Compassionate, patient, and empathetic towards animals. Strong work ethic, with the ability to follow directions and handle multiple tasks. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with the public, volunteers, and other staff.Working Conditions:
This position requires constant standing, bending, and lifting. Duties will include interacting with the public, cleaning dog kennels and cat condos, general cleaning, and walking dogs. Work may involve exposure to various weather conditions, including cold, heat, and rain. Protective equipment and safety measures are provided when handling animals. Schedule flexibility is required, including weekends, mornings, and holidays . Must have reliable transportation and be prepared to report to work in all weather conditions , including during snow or inclement weather, to ensure the animals receive consistent careWhat We Offer:
Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications. A rewarding opportunity to positively impact the lives of animals. Training and professional development in animal care. If you're passionate about animal welfare and ready to be part of a dedicated team, we'd love to hear from you!Pay:
$13.00 - $15.00 per hour Expected hours: 25.0 - 30.0 per weekExperience:
Animal Handling:
1 year (Required)Work Location:
In personBenefits
- Professional Development