Animal Jobs A-Z: 40+ Jobs That Work With Animals
Animal lovers everywhere are looking for ways to turn their passion into a career. In this guide, we've compiled a comprehensive list of diverse animal jobs to appeal to the many different kinds of people who want to work with animals. From therapy dogs to wildlife conservation, this collection dives into pet jobs, veterinary jobs, and other jobs that study animals.
At The Academy of Pet Careers, we understand the desire to make your love for animals a lifestyle. That's why our school puts our students on track toward accomplishing that very goal. If you've ever considered a job in animal care, this guide will explore just some of the animal career options available to you.
Types of Jobs for Animal Lovers
Pet Jobs
Pet jobs typically refers to job opportunities or occupations involving animal care, management, training, or medical treatment of pets. These jobs can vary widely. They might include roles such as pet sitters, dog walkers, pet groomers, pet trainers, or roles within pet stores.
Additionally, a pet job might also refer to an errand or task related to the care and maintenance of pets. This includes activities such as feeding, grooming, walking, or taking the pet to a veterinarian. Many pet jobs do not require a college degree, but having one can open doors for higher-level positions. These jobs have a focus on animal welfare, rehabilitation, and advocacy, rather than veterinary care.
An animal behaviorist is a professional who studies and analyzes the behavior of animals. They typically focus on understanding their instincts, learning patterns, and social interactions. They may work with a variety of animals and employ techniques such as observation, experimentation, and behavior modification to help improve animal welfare and address behavioral issues. Animal behaviorists can share similar job descriptions with dog trainers, but their main focus is addressing underlying mental and emotional issues that impact unwanted behaviors.
An animal shelter worker or volunteer is an individual who assists in the day-to-day operations of an animal shelter or rescue organization. Their responsibilities include feeding the animals, cleaning kennels, socializing with the animals, assisting with adoptions, and providing general support to the shelter staff. Their primary goal is to provide care and temporary housing for animals in need.
A bather/brusher is an individual who provides basic grooming services to animals, while assisting a pet groomer or stylist. They support groomers by preparing animals for grooming sessions. This involves bathing, drying, and brushing their coats. They also clean and maintain grooming tools and equipment.
A pet boarding and daycare technician works in facilities that offer temporary care for pets when their owners are away or unable to provide care. They ensure the safety and comfort of boarded pets by providing food, exercise, playtime, and monitoring their health. They may also assist with grooming, administering medications, and maintaining a clean and organized environment.
A dog trainer is a professional who uses various techniques and methods to train dogs and modify their behavior. They regularly work with dogs of different ages, breeds, and temperaments. Trainers teach skills and manners, address behavioral issues, and enhance communication between dogs and their owners. Most dog trainers generally focus on skills and manner training. Animal trainers formulate individual training plans for the animals they work with. Dog trainers do not need a license to practice, but they can become certified dog trainers if they want to specialize in a specific area like dog sports or service dog training, or if they simply want to increase their prospects.
A dog walker or pet sitter is an individual who provides physical activity and animal care for pets when their owners are unable to do so. They may take dogs for walks, engage them in play activities, provide meals, administer medication if needed, and ensure the general well-being of the pets under their care. Pet sitters help animals get exercise, and sometimes even train them, along with feeding and cleaning them.
A K9 police officer is a law enforcement professional who works with specially trained dogs in police operations. These dogs, often referred to as police dogs or K9s, are utilized in tasks such as tracking suspects, detecting drugs or explosives, search and rescue operations, and apprehending criminals. K9 police officers handle and care for their police dogs and maintain a strong bond with them.
A pet adoption counselor works in animal shelters or rescue organizations and assists individuals or families in finding suitable pets for adoption. They assess the needs and preferences of potential adopters, provide information on available animals, and help match them with the right pet based on factors such as lifestyle, experience, and compatibility.
A pet bereavement counselor provides emotional support and guidance to individuals who are grieving the loss of a pet. They help pet owners navigate the grieving process, cope with the loss, and provide a safe space for expressing their feelings. Pet bereavement counselors may offer individual or group counseling sessions, and they may also educate pet owners about end-of-life care and pet loss resources.
A pet breeder selectively breeds animals, typically focusing on specific breeds or characteristics. They aim to produce offspring with desirable traits, conforming to breed standards and ensuring genetic health. Pet breeders prioritize responsible breeding practices, including genetic testing, proper care of parent animals, and finding suitable homes for the offspring.
A pet groomer or stylist is a professional who provides grooming services to pets. They do many of the duties associated with a bather/brusher but have a higher level of skill when it comes to trims and haircuts. Some specialize in specific animals or breeds, or they can can even become certified pet groomers if they want to increase their prospects. Pet groomers may also perform nail trims, ear cleaning, and other aesthetic services to enhance the appearance and hygiene of pets.
A pet photographer specializes in capturing photographs of pets, often with their owners or in various settings. They have the skills to work with animals, ensuring a comfortable and engaging environment to capture memorable and expressive images of pets. Pet photographers may work in studios, at events, or on-location.
Veterinary/Medical Jobs
Veterinary careers include various professional roles that involve caring for the health of animals. This can include direct animal care roles, such as veterinarians who diagnose and treat medical conditions in animals, and veterinary assistants and technicians who assist in providing medical care. Other roles may include veterinary pathologists who study diseases in animals, or veterinary epidemiologists who study disease patterns and outbreaks.
Moreover, some veterinary jobs are in academia, research, public health, and the pet food and animal pharmaceutical industries. Regardless of the specific role, individuals in veterinary jobs use their knowledge of animal science and medicine to improve animal welfare, protect public health, and contribute to scientific research.
An animal chiropractor is a specialist who provides chiropractic animal care. They are trained to assess and treat musculoskeletal problems in animals, particularly focusing on the spine and nervous system. By using manual manipulation techniques, they aim to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall health of animals.
An animal massage therapist specializes in providing therapeutic massages for animals. Through the use of various techniques such as Swedish massage, acupressure, and myofascial release, they aim to reduce muscle tension, alleviate pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation in animals. Animal massage therapists often work closely with veterinarians and other animal welfare professionals.
An animal nutritionist is an expert in the field of animal nutrition. They study the dietary needs and requirements of different animal species and develop balanced and appropriate nutrition plans. In nutrition roles, creativity and a passion for animals are essential. Animal nutritionists often work with pet owners, farmers, and animal-related industries to ensure optimal health, growth, and performance of animals through proper nutrition. They can also work with on-site veterinarians to find foods that are beneficial for an animal's needs. Working as an animal nutritionist often requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree with a heavy emphasis in animal science.
A Pet CPR & First Aid Instructor is an individual who specializes in teaching others how to provide emergency care and lifesaving techniques to pets. They are knowledgeable in pet CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and first aid procedures, and they possess the necessary skills to train pet owners, animal professionals, and first responders in these techniques. Their role is to educate and empower individuals with the knowledge and skills required to respond effectively in critical situations, such as providing immediate care to pets experiencing cardiac arrest, choking, bleeding, or other emergencies.
A veterinarian, also known as a veterinary doctor or vet, is a medical professional who diagnoses, treats, and prevents diseases and injuries in animals. They provide medical care, perform surgeries, administer vaccines, prescribe medications, and offer general health advice to pet owners or animal caretakers. Veterinarians must earn a bachelor's degree, complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, and pass a state exam to become licensed. They may work in private practices, animal hospitals, research institutions, or government agencies. Veterinarians also have the highest income potential in the veterinary field.
The job of a veterinary assistant is to support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in their day-to-day duties. They assist with tasks such as animal restraint, cleaning and sanitizing equipment and facilities, preparing examination rooms, and providing basic animal care. Veterinary assistants may also communicate with clients and schedule appointments.
A veterinary technician, like a veterinary assistant, is a professional who assists veterinarians in providing care to animals. They perform tasks such as taking patient histories, administering medications, collecting samples, conducting laboratory tests, assisting in surgeries, and providing nursing care. While the roles are similar, there are key differences between veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants, like education and licensure. Veterinary technicians require a two-year associate's degree in veterinary technology and must pass a licensing exam.
A veterinary receptionist is the frontline staff member in a veterinary office. They greet clients, schedule appointments, handle phone calls, manage medical records, and perform administrative tasks. Veterinary receptionists ensure smooth operations in the veterinary clinic and provide essential customer service to pet owners.
Large Animal Jobs
Large animal jobs refer to occupations and roles that involve working directly with large animals. These jobs typically require specific skills, knowledge, and qualifications in areas like veterinary science, zoology, biology, or animal husbandry.
Examples of large animal jobs include large animal veterinarians, zookeepers, animal behaviorists, wildlife rehabilitators, livestock managers, and marine mammal trainers. Each of these roles typically involve the care or study of large animals such as horses, elephants, lions, or whales.
An equine therapist is a professional who provides therapeutic treatments and rehabilitation for horses. They may employ various techniques such as massage, stretching, hydrotherapy, and exercise programs to address musculoskeletal issues, improve performance, and support the overall well-being of horses. Equine therapists often work closely with veterinarians and trainers.
A farrier is a skilled professional who specializes in hoof care and the shoeing of horses. They trim and shape horse hooves, apply horseshoes if necessary, and ensure proper balance and soundness of the horse's feet. Farriers work closely with horse owners, trainers, and veterinarians to maintain the health and functionality of horse hooves.
A large animal veterinarian specializes in the medical care and treatment of large animals, such as horses, cows, pigs, and other livestock. They provide preventative care, diagnose and treat ill and injured animals, perform surgeries, and advise on herd health management. Large animal veterinarians may work in rural areas, on farms, or in veterinary clinics.
A livestock manager oversees animal care, and productivity of livestock animals, such as cows, sheep, pigs, or poultry. They ensure proper nutrition, housing, breeding, and disease prevention measures for the animals. Livestock managers may also handle the management of herd or flock records, coordinate farm operations, and make decisions to optimize livestock production.
Wild Animal Jobs
Wild animal jobs refer to a broad spectrum of professional occupations and roles that involve interacting with wild animals. These roles can be found in various sectors such as scientific research, public service, healthcare, education, and non-profit work.
Each of the following jobs requires a specific set of skills and knowledge about animals in the wild and their habitats. Moreover, they all play a vital role in conserving wildlife and ecosystems. They raise public awareness about the importance of biodiversity and environmental preservation.
An animal control officer is a professional responsible for enforcing animal-related laws and regulations. Their primary role is to protect public safety and animal welfare by addressing issues such as stray animals, animal cruelty, and dangerous or aggressive animals. They may also handle animal rescues, investigate complaints, and educate the public on responsible pet ownership.
An apiarist or beekeeper is a person who raises and manages honeybees. They maintain beehives, monitor the health and productivity of bee colonies, and collect honey, beeswax, and other bee-related products. Apiarists play a crucial role in pollination, honey production, and the conservation of bee populations.
A conservation officer, also known as a game warden, is a law enforcement professional responsible for protecting wildlife and enforcing conservation laws. They monitor and manage wildlife populations, investigate wildlife-related crimes, enforce hunting and fishing regulations, and educate the public on conservation practices. Conservation officers often work in natural parks, reserves, and rural areas, and they typically complete training in environmental management and law enforcement.
A wild animal photographer specializes in capturing photographs of animals in their natural habitats. They often work in the field, observing and documenting wildlife behavior and interactions. Wild animal photographers play a vital role in raising awareness about wildlife conservation and promoting appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
A wildlife forensic scientist applies scientific techniques and analysis to investigate crimes related to wildlife, such as poaching, illegal trade, or environmental offenses. They examine evidence, conduct DNA analysis, identify species, and provide expert testimony in legal proceedings. Wildlife forensic scientists play a crucial role in enforcing wildlife protection laws and supporting wildlife conservation efforts.
A wildlife rehabilitator is an individual who provides care, treatment, and rehabilitation to injured, orphaned, or sick wild animals. They assess and stabilize animals, provide medical treatment, and facilitate their recovery and eventual release back into their natural habitats. Wildlife rehabilitators may work in specialized wildlife rehabilitation centers or collaborate with wildlife agencies and veterinarians.
Exotic Animal Jobs
Exotic animal jobs refer to professions or roles that involve working with non-domestic or foreign species, often unique, rare, or unusual animals not typically found in a traditional domestic context. These jobs can be in a variety of fields such as zoology, veterinary medicine, wildlife conservation, animal behavior studies, animal training, wildlife photography, animal education, and more.
Examples might include an exotic animal vet, a zookeeper at a zoo specializing in exotic animals, a wildlife conservationist working with endangered exotic species, or a wildlife photographer capturing images of exotic animals in their natural habitats.
An aquarist is a professional who specializes in the care and management of aquatic animals and their habitats. They work in aquariums, zoos, or research facilities, ensuring the well-being of marine and freshwater species. Aquarists are responsible for maintaining water quality, designing and enriching habitats, feeding animals, monitoring animal welfare, and educating the public about aquatic life.
An exotic animal trainer is a professional who specializes in working with and training animals that are not commonly found in domestic settings. These trainers possess the knowledge and skills to handle and train a wide variety of non-native animals, such as large cats, reptiles, birds, primates, and other unique species. Exotic animal trainers may find employment in zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, circuses, theme parks, film and television productions, and other institutions that house and showcase exotic animals.
An exotic animal veterinarian specializes in the medical care and treatment of exotic species, which can include reptiles, birds, small mammals, and other non-traditional pets. They possess specialized knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat a wide range of health issues in these unique animals. Exotic animal veterinarians may work in zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or private practices.
A zookeeper is a professional who is responsible for daily animal care, feeding, and management of animals in a zoo or wildlife park. They ensure the health of the animals, maintain their enclosures, monitor health, and implement enrichment programs to support natural behaviors. Zookeepers also educate the public about the animals and conservation efforts.
Jobs that Study Animals
Jobs that study animals refer to professions or roles in which individuals research, observe, analyze, and document animal behaviors, physical characteristics, habitats, and interactions. These jobs often fall within fields such as zoology, veterinary science, marine biology, ethology, wildlife biology, and conservation science.
They may involve tasks such as conducting fieldwork to study animals in their natural environments, carrying out laboratory experiments, compiling data for research studies, or contributing to conservation efforts. Examples of these jobs include zookeepers, wildlife biologists, marine biologists, veterinarians, animal behaviorists, and ecologists.
A cetologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of cetaceans, which include whales, dolphins, and porpoises. They conduct research on cetacean behavior, ecology, communication, and conservation. Cetologists may work in the field, collecting data through observation and study, or in laboratories, analyzing samples and conducting experiments.
An entomologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of insects. They examine insect anatomy, behavior, classification, ecology, and their impact on ecosystems and human activities. Entomologists may work in fields such as agriculture, public health, biodiversity conservation, or research and contribute to understanding insect species and developing insect control strategies.
An ethologist is a scientist who studies animal behavior, particularly focusing on understanding their natural instincts and evolutionary adaptations. Ethologists conduct research on various species to investigate behaviors such as mating, communication, foraging, and social interactions. Their findings contribute to our understanding of animal behavior and aid in conservation efforts.
A herpetologist is a scientist who studies reptiles and amphibians. They investigate various aspects of these animals, including their behavior, ecology, physiology, and conservation. Herpetologists may conduct field research, analyze specimens in laboratories, and contribute to the understanding and conservation of reptile and amphibian species.
An ichthyologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of fish. They examine fish anatomy, physiology, behavior, and their interactions with their aquatic environments. Ichthyologists may conduct research on various fish species, contribute to fisheries management, and study the impacts of human activities on fish populations and aquatic ecosystems.
A mammologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of mammals. They research various aspects of mammalian biology, behavior, taxonomy, and ecology. Mammologists may focus on specific groups of mammals or study mammal populations in specific habitats. Their work contributes to our understanding of mammalian diversity and conservation.
A marine biologist is a scientist who studies marine organisms, their ecosystems, and the impact of human activities on the marine environment. They research marine species, habitats, and processes, and may specialize in areas such as marine conservation, fisheries management, marine ecology, or marine mammalogy. Marine biologists may work in research institutions, government agencies, or conservation organizations.
An ornithologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of birds. They investigate various aspects of avian biology, including taxonomy, behavior, migration, ecology, and conservation. Ornithologists may conduct field research, study bird populations, and contribute to understanding avian evolution and ecology.
A wildlife biologist studies various aspects of wildlife species, including their behavior, ecology, distribution, and population dynamics. They conduct research, collect and analyze data, and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. Wildlife biologists study life in wild habitats, specifically undomesticated animals. They may work in research institutions, government agencies, or conservation organizations. Most wildlife biologist jobs require at least a bachelor's degree, with many employers preferring a graduate degree.
A zoologist is a scientist who studies biology, behavior, evolution, and the ecological relationships between animals. They may specialize in specific animal groups or study broader aspects of animal life. Zoologists conduct field research, collect and analyze data, and contribute to understanding animal diversity, conservation, and ecological processes.
Key Takeaways
There are so many animal career opportunities to consider. We covered over 40 of them, ranging from the companionship of therapy dogs to the conservation of wildlife. However, there are still even more to be explored; the possibilities are vast and varied for animal lovers. That said, education, experience, and even certification are important considerations for these job opportunities. If you're inspired to start a life working with animals, The Academy of Pet Careers provides a direct pathway to a career in the pet industry. Between our dog training school, dog grooming school, and veterinary assisting school, you are bound to find something you love.
Joseph Schifano
Joseph Schifano is the President of The Academy of Pet Careers and the Founder of DogNerdly.
With over 20 years of professional pet experience, Joseph began his journey as the owner/operator of a successful seven-figure pet care business. He later acquired The Academy of Pet Careers, aiming to elevate the quality of care provided by industry professionals. This position enabled him to connect with leading experts in the field and deepen his knowledge in all aspects of pet care.