Animal Carers
Overview
Animal Carers look after the daily needs of animals like dogs, cats, racehorses, and zoo animals. They work in places such as kennels, animal shelters, zoos, and aquariums, providing food, water, grooming, and exercise. They may also keep records of feedings and treatments, and clean and repair animal enclosures. This role is all about ensuring the well-being of animals not raised for consumption.
Did you know?
Consider pursuing a Certificate III in Animal Care Services or Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing through TAFE. These qualifications provide hands-on experience and are highly valued by employers in the animal care industry.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$55,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Time Management
Key Responsibilities
- Bathes, cuts, combs, blow-dry's and styles pets' coats, clips their nails and cleans their ears
- Inspects, prepares, cleans, disinfects and maintains comfortable cages and enclosures
- Transports food, fills water troughs and feeds animals according to their individual needs
- Maintains animal health records, treats minor injuries and reports serious conditions to veterinarians
- Exercises and plays with animals, answers visitor questions and transfers animals between enclosures by leading or carrying them
- Dusts and sprays insecticides on animals and immerses them in insecticide baths to control insect pests
Career Considerations
Educational Pathways in Australia
Consider pursuing a Certificate III in Animal Care Services or Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing through TAFE. These qualifications provide hands-on experience and are highly valued by employers in the animal care industry.
Physical and Emotional Demands
This career involves physical work including lifting, cleaning, and being outdoors in various weather conditions. It also requires emotional resilience when dealing with sick or injured animals and making difficult decisions about animal welfare.
Career Specialisation Opportunities
You can specialise in different areas such as zoo keeping, wildlife rehabilitation, marine animal care, or companion animal services. Each specialisation offers unique challenges and requires specific additional training.