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Nonfarm Animal Caretakers

Also called: Groomer, Dog Groomer, Aquarist, Kennel Attendant

What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
  • Feed and water animals according to schedules and feeding instructions.
  • Mix food, liquid formulas, medications, or food supplements according to instructions, prescriptions, and knowledge of animal species.
  • Examine and observe animals to detect signs of illness, disease, or injury.

Knowledge

Business
  • customer service
Arts and Humanities
  • English language

Skills

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

Abilities

Verbal
  • communicate by speaking
  • listen and understand what people say
Hand and Finger Use
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include
practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
  • Dependability
  • Attention to Detail
  • Independence
  • Integrity
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Initiative

Technology

Examples of the technology used in this career will be available soon.

Education

Education: (rated 1 of 5)
some high school or
high school diploma
usually needed

Get started on your career:

Find Training Find Certifications Registered Apprenticeship

Job Outlook

Average Outlook
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
Salary
$19,510
per year, on average
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See more details at O*NET OnLine about nonfarm animal caretakers.