National
| Median wages (2008) |
$9.31 hourly, $19,360 annual |
| Employment (2006) |
157,000 employees |
| Projected growth (2006-2016) |
Faster than average (14% to 20%)
|
| Projected need (2006-2016) |
54,000 additional employees |
39-2021.00 - Nonfarm Animal Caretakers
Feed, water, groom, bathe, exercise, or otherwise care for pets and other nonfarm animals, such as dogs, cats, 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.
Sample of reported job titles:
Groomer, Dog Groomer, Kennel Technician, Pet Groomer, Kennel Manager, Kennel Attendant, Kennel Aide, Kennel Assistant, Zookeeper, Animal Care Giver (ACG)
Tasks
- Feed and water animals according to schedules and feeding instructions.
- Clean, organize, and disinfect animal quarters such as pens, stables, cages, and yards, and animal equipment such as saddles and bridles.
- Answer telephones and schedule appointments.
- Examine and observe animals to detect signs of illness, disease, or injury.
- Respond to questions from patrons, and provide information about animals, such as behavior, habitat, breeding habits, or facility activities.
- Provide treatment to sick or injured animals, or contact veterinarians to secure treatment.
- Collect and record animal information such as weight, size, physical condition, treatments received, medications given, and food intake.
- Perform animal grooming duties such as washing, brushing, clipping, and trimming coats, cutting nails, and cleaning ears.
- Exercise animals to maintain their physical and mental health.
- Order, unload, and store feed and supplies.
