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Agriculture

Animal Caretaker

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.

Annual openings

2,101

Median wage

$37,430

Typical education

High school (GED)

Growth 2026–2032

+15%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED)

Credential requirement

No certification is required or expected for this job.

Work experience

No previous work experience is required.

Some of these jobs focus on keeping livestock healthy and growing on farms/ranches or in a feedlot.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerNo
  • OutdoorsYes
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Human Services
  • Home Services

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Examine and observe animals to detect signs of illness, disease, or injury.
  2. Mix food, liquid formulas, medications, or food supplements according to instructions, prescriptions, and knowledge of animal species.
  3. Collect and record animal information, such as weight, size, physical condition, treatments received, medications given, and food intake.
  4. Feed and water animals according to schedules and feeding instructions.
  5. Provide treatment to sick or injured animals, or contact veterinarians to secure treatment.
  6. Exercise animals to maintain their physical and mental health.
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