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.
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Annual wage data for Animal Caretakers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
277,300
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $24,500. 25th percentile: U.S. $28,870. 50th percentile: U.S. $33,470. 75th percentile: U.S. $37,160. 90th percentile: U.S. $46,480. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $24,500 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $46,480 |
| Workers on average earn | $34,750 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
