Job that work with animals: 20 Ways to Turn Your Passion into a Profession

20 Ways to Turn Your Passion into a Profession

You might be someone who can’t get enough of canines. Or it could be you love being around livestock. Perhaps you’re simply content to be near any kind of creature. Whatever your specific animal-related interest, you can likely put it to use in the workforce.

Careers with animals aren’t just available, they’re abundant. We’re highlighting 20 different professions to prove it. Some of them are probably familiar, but you might be surprised to discover what types of jobs working with animals are out there. You might even discover the ideal animal career for you.

20 careers with animals worth considering

Believe it or not, this is a condensed list of professional opportunities for those interested in working with animals. There are even more options out there. It’s also worth noting that there’s room for fluctuation in the compensation data included depending on location, experience and whether you run your own business.   

1. Agricultural technician

Agricultural technicians assist with measuring and analyzing the quality of agricultural products. They ensure collected samples meet the appropriate safety and quality standards. Much of the work agricultural technicians do is aimed at increasing productivity and minimizing the chances of disease among animals.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for agricultural technicians in 2019 was $41,230, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

2. Animal-assisted therapist

These specialists are therapists who incorporate animals into their treatment plans to promote well-being. Animal-assisted therapists might work with elderly individuals who may otherwise be socially isolated or clients with certain medical conditions. Some research has actually shown that animal-assisted therapy can help improve recovery for patients staying in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Earning potential: The median annual salary in 2019 for a broad group of therapists that includes animal-assisted therapists was $52,650.

3. Animal breeder

Whether they work with dogs, horses or another type of animal, breeders use their knowledge of genetics to assist in producing offspring. They often breed for valuable traits, which vary depending on the animal. Many animal breeders are well-versed in artificial insemination techniques to ensure consistency.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for animal breeders in 2019 was $42,920.

4. Animal control worker

While there are numerous job titles for animal control workers, these professionals typically have the same responsibilities. Their duties can include picking up stray animals, conducting humane investigations and seeking justice for abused or neglected animals. They often write long, thorough reports, so it’s especially important to be detail-oriented to pursue this animal career. 

Earning potential: The median annual salary for animal control workers in 2019 was $37,590.

5.

Animal scientist

An animal scientist’s day-to-day work can vary depending on where they’re employed. You can find these professionals working in academic settings, research facilities, regulatory agencies and more. Regardless of their specific role, animal scientists draw on their expertise in animal nutrition, genetics, growth and development to help ensure a safe and stable food supply.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for animal scientists in 2019 was $60,300.

6. Animal trainer

Trainers teach animals an array of skills related to obedience, security and even assisting individuals with disabilities. Good trainers can teach animals how to respond and react to voice and visual commands. They often work with dogs or horses, but others work with more exotic animals.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for animal trainers in 2019 was $24,780.

7. Conservation officer

Also called fish and game wardens, conservation officers are technically law enforcement professionals. Their duties include investigating wildlife crimes, patrolling areas like lakes and deserts, and assisting with prosecution of court cases. If you’re passionate about protecting wildlife and have an affinity for the legal field, this animal career could be a great fit.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for conservation officers in 2019 was $57,500.

8. Farm or ranch manager

Farm and ranch managers are tasked with making sure everything at the facility they oversee is running smoothly. They need to carefully monitor weather patterns and track disease to make sure the animals stay healthy. Those who work on small farms or ranches may do a lot of manual labor involved in raising animals themselves, while managers at larger facilities will likely oversee employees who perform those tasks.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for farm and ranch managers in 2019 was $71,160.

9. Farmworker

Those who love hands-on work with animals might enjoy being a farmworker. These individuals perform a vast array of tasks, including feeding, grazing, weighing and loading animals. Many in this animal career also assist with births and are even trained to perform basic medical procedures like administering vaccines. 

Earning potential: The median annual salary for farmworkers in 2019 was $27,830.

10. Kennel attendant

When pet owners need someone to look after their furry friends, they often rely on kennel attendants to ensure their animals stay happy and healthy. Kennel attendants are responsible for everything from feeding to making sure the animals they’re watching get enough physical activity. They often work in boarding kennels, but veterinary clinics and rescue organizations often employ these individuals as well.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for nonfarm animal caretakers, which includes kennel attendants, in 2019 was $24,780.

11. Lab animal caretaker

Responsibly using animals in research is sometimes vital to scientific advances, and lab animal caretakers work to ensure safety and quality of life for those creatures. Under the supervision of a scientist or veterinarian, lab animal caretakers feed, exercise and monitor animals. They also assist with collecting samples and making sure the working environment stays clean.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for both veterinary assistants and lab animal caretakers in 2019 was $28,590.

12. Pet adoption counselor

There are many animals that need a good home, and pet adoption counselors help considerably. They work with potential pet owners to make sure they find the best possible pairing for every animal. Pet adoption counselors often advise potential owners on general pet care as well as how they can accommodate a certain animal’s unique needs.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for nonfarm animal caretakers, which includes pet adoption counselors, in 2019 was $24,780.

13. Pet groomer

Groomers are responsible for maintaining pets’ appearances. They cut and trim hair, clean ears and clip nails. Pet groomers also frequently sell products to pet owners. They have many options for employment, including running their own business or working at a kennel.  

Earning potential: The BLS classifies groomers as animal care and service workers. In 2019, this group earned a median annual salary of $24,780.

14. Veterinarian

Veterinarians are the doctors of the animal world. They often do a lot of preventive care, but also treat existing medical conditions and injuries. Like physicians who work with people, veterinarians can specialize. Many also work with a single type of animal or group of animals, such as pets or large animals.

Earning potential: The median annual wage for veterinarians in 2019 was $95,460.

15. Veterinary assistant

An integral part of the team at a clinic, veterinary assistants help care for animals. They support veterinarians and veterinary technicians by making sure animals are fed, cleaned and exercised. They also help to secure animals during examinations and may provide basic medical care like first aid.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for veterinary assistants in 2019 was $35,320.

16. Veterinary technician

Veterinary technicians work under the supervision of veterinarians to help provide medical care to animals. Their duties include taking medical histories, collecting samples, preparing animals for surgery and assisting in diagnostic procedures. Like veterinarians, these professionals must keep up with continuing education requirements.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for veterinary technicians in 2019 was $34,420.

17. Wildlife biologist

Wildlife biologists are experts in wildlife and habitats as well as how the two impact one another. They help to preserve wild animal populations by conducting research, setting catch limits, writing reports and collaborating with other professionals to improve habitats as needed. If you’re passionate about protecting endangered species and other wildlife, this could be a perfect opportunity for you to be working with animals.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for both wildlife biologists and zoologists in 2019 was $63,270.

18. Wildlife rehabilitator

While some wildlife rehabilitators are volunteers, others perform this work full time. When animals are brought to a rehabilitation facility, these experts must conduct an exam, respond to any immediate health needs and then provide follow-up care until the animal is ready for release. While working with animals is central to this role, wildlife rehabilitators also spend a fair amount of time communicating with the public.

Earning potential: While the BLS doesn’t provide specific salary information on wildlife rehabilitators, the median annual salary for nonfarm animal caretakers in 2019 was $24,780.

19. Zookeeper

Being a zookeeper is one of the few careers that provides a substantial amount of interaction with exotic creatures. They provide care for the animals they oversee, which includes feeding, observing behavioral changes and administering medication when necessary. Many zookeepers are also involved in education programs geared toward visitors. 

Earning potential: The median annual salary for animal care and service workers, which includes zookeepers, in 2019 was $24,780.

20. Zoologist

Zoologists work in the same general field as wildlife biologists, but there is a distinction. While these individuals also study animals and conduct research to aid in conservation, they focus more on specific types of animals rather than animal populations or ecosystems. Ornithologists, for example, are zoologists who study birds.

Earning potential: The median annual salary for both wildlife biologists and zoologists in 2019 was $63,270.

Do you envision yourself working with animals?

There are clearly plenty of employment options for animal lovers like you. If you’re unsure of which path you want to take, spend some time thinking about your career goals and what it will take to attain them. The professions above vary considerably when it comes to earning potential, job opportunity and required education.

Many, but not all, careers with animals require a bachelor’s degree. This is especially true for science-based professions like veterinary medicine and zoology. If you’re interested in these types of animal careers, it might be time to start thinking about next steps. To learn more about how you can prepare for a future working with animals at Berry College, which is surrounded by 27,000 acres of woodlands and meadows that are home to numerous creatures, head to our Animal Science program page.

Here Are the 17 Coolest Jobs That Involve Working With Animals

Veterinarian may be the first thing that comes to mind, but all kinds of opportunities exist for furry-friend lovers looking for interesting jobs.

Loving animals is an obvious requisite. Wanting to make a difference is another motivation cited by people looking for jobs working with animals. “I became a dog walker for flexibility. It allows me time to pursue my art career,” says Josephine Bentivegna, who created a client overflow in just three years. Ian Burgess, a professional dog walker in Brooklyn, New York, can relate. “I spent 17 years on Wall Street. Now, I’m my own boss, getting fresh air instead of sitting behind a desk,” he says.

Looking into jobs working with animals? Check out these options:

If you agree with Simon and Garfunkel’s “At the Zoo,” you’ll love this highly specialized career. Zoo vets spend their time tending to animals at — you guessed it — the zoo. The national median salary is $94,733.

Vet techs are trained to do lab and clinical procedures and work hand-in-hand with veterinarians. Technologists acquire four years of training and technician jobs require two. Both are credentialed and nab a median salary of $30,783.

They assist veterinarians with kennel work, exercising the animals and clinical duties. A big plus is hands-on connection with creatures, great and small. Median salary is $30,783.

Zoologists work with animals in the wild and controlled environments such as zoos. They provide data that shapes wildlife conservation and preservation policy, work with animals extensively and spend time crunching numbers. Starting salaries depend on schooling. Those with bachelor’s degrees earn around $45,460. Those with doctoral degrees start out in the $57,000 to $74,000 range, according to Chron.

Obedience trainers work with dogs, horses and other animals on behavioral issues and competition preparedness. Salaried positions at kennels, stables, animal shelters and veterinary clinics start at around $32,400, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Professionals usually begin as apprentices at guide-dog schools and are paid $15 an hour, according to U.S. Department of Labor. Guide Dogs of America lists trainer’s starting salaries, post-apprenticeship, as comparable to those of teachers. Trainers spend significant one-to-one time with dogs.

These detail-oriented, empathetic professionals facilitate pet adoptions and spend as much time on office work as they do with animals. The median salary is $21,310.

These local saviors of animal parents are usually self-employed “visiting pals” to fur babies. Median salary hovers around $24,000.

Animal acupuncturists are veterinarians who incorporate acupuncture into their practice. Average median salary is $48,400.

Animal nutritionists spend their time determining the dietary needs of animals in captivity, studying animal behavior and economics to make recommendations to corporations or governmental agencies about diet. They spend more time in the lab than the barn. The BLS lists the median pay of animal scientists, which include animal nutritionists, at $62,920.

When animals in the wild are hurt, they may be sent to licensed wildlife rehabilitators for assessment. Wound care, cleaning and record keeping are required. Emergency response to oil spills, hurricanes and other disasters is common. Median salary, according to the BLS, is $24,420.

Wolf biologists immerse themselves in all things lupine. Physical interaction with pack members and excellent writing and research skills are required. Biologists spend as much time educating others and raising funds as they do interacting with wolves. The BLS lists $60,520 as the median salary for wildlife biologists, which include wolf biologists.

These highly trained professionals investigate animal abuse, protect and save animals and procure justice. O*NET OnLine lists $32,020 as a starting salary.

Love a particular breed? Being a breeder lets you hang with puppies or kittens all day long while managing a business and maintaining high genetic standards. The BLS lists $42,340 as the median salary.

This job pays as much in love as money. Shelter managers work with animals and raise funds, earning between $39,000 and $43,000 according to one Glassdoor review, often after spending much time as an unpaid volunteer.

Help enforce animal welfare laws in your town or city, and patrol public areas to make sure animals (both wild and domesticated) are doing OK. Median salary is $36,600, according to the BLS.

Sure, you won’t necessarily work with cuddly animals, but this job can involve travel and scuba diving! Plus, you might study plants as well as animals. Median pay is $48,915, but it could be much higher depending on your education and training.

Corey Kagan is a freelance writer living in New York. Her daughter is a wolf enthusiast who is considering a career as a wolf biologist. A version of this article was originally published on Care.com.

Work with animals in St. Petersburg. 12 vacancies in animal care

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December 30, 2022

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Work with scales and label printers (we don’t work with the cash register, we only weigh, print labels and stick on goods)
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World of professions. Working with animals.

Working with animals is one of the hardest but most rewarding jobs. Such work includes breeding, research, treatment and training of animals, caring for them. This field of activity is chosen by people who love animals very much: they become veterinarians, zoologists, cynologists, etc. Read more about the activities of a zoologist and other professions related to animals, read below.
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Pros and cons of the profession

Being a zoologist is great because:

1. There is an opportunity to make discoveries.

The profession of a zoologist is associated with the study of animals, during which a specialist can make many discoveries: from new animal species to ways to improve their conditions.

2. Help animals.

The activity of a zoologist is directly related to the prevention of the extinction of animals, the protection of the natural environment in which they live.
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3. Additional income.

Having settled in one company, a zoologist can consult private clients, which will bring him additional income.

4. Low competition in universities.

This increases the chance of taking a budgetary place in the university that you choose, having passed the exam well.

Being a zoologist is terrible because:

1. Natural factors.

While observing animals in their natural environment, a zoologist may be exposed to natural factors: the scorching sun, heavy rains, frost, insect attacks.

2. Working with animals can be dangerous.

Not all animals are peaceful: some of them can bite, scratch, attack.

Labor functions of a zoologist

Identification of the impact of negative factors.
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Zoologists go on business trips in Russia and other countries. During business trips, they study the life of animals and the influence of the environment on it.

· Prevention of extinction of representatives of the fauna.

Zoologists are directly related to environmental protection, because thanks to their research, people can provide animals with the conditions necessary for life.

· Analyze and organize data.

The results of research by zoologists are used in the field of medicine, pharmacology, and innovative technologies.
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To become a zoologist, you need to get a higher or secondary professional education in the direction of “Zoology”.

Animal Care Occupation List

· Veterinarian.
He takes care of animals. He has a secondary vocational or higher education in the direction of “Veterinary Medicine”.

· Felinologist.
Specializing in domestic cats. He has a higher education in the direction of “Zoology” (specialization “Felinology”).
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· Trainer. Trains animals to perform in public. You may not have a higher or secondary professional education, but it is important to have veterinary knowledge and the ability to handle animals.

· Cynologist.
He specializes in the upbringing and breeding of dogs, and is also engaged in their training for owners or law enforcement officers. He has a secondary vocational education in the direction of “Veterinary Medicine” or completed cynologist courses.
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Qualities of a person who chooses a profession in the field of working with animals

The most important quality for a person working with animals is love for them. It is also important to have attentiveness, caution and the ability to analyze large amounts of data. People who work with animals are distinguished by their special nobility and deserve great respect!

Author of the article: educational psychologist
Regional Resource Center
for psychological and pedagogical support
Alina Igorevna Cherepanova
Yekaterinburg

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