What does an Animal Care Technician do?
Animal care technicians provide care to animals in kennels, veterinary centers, research laboratories, and other facilities. They ensure the animals receive proper food, shelter, medical care, and human interaction. They may oversee any necessary training or rehabilitation. They are responsible for maintaining a safe, clean, and healthy environment. They monitor the animals’ health and well-being, and provide or facilitate prompt treatment for any medical concerns. They may also perform routine maintenance and cleaning tasks.
Animal care technicians have a high school diploma, although additional training or education is helpful. They often have a background in animal care or training, which may include volunteer work at an animal shelter. They must be knowledgeable about basic animal care. Experience in a veterinary care setting is an advantage.
- Ensure OSE standards are maintained in the department.
- Perform vaccinations, fecal loops, slides, etc. for the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician.
- Responsible for the welfare of all live animals and merchandise within the department.
- Bird tasks involve receipt, general care, feeding, inoculations, test bleeding and harvests.
- Provide basic first aid, administer medications, ensure appropriate amount of food and water, and groom as directed.
- Refill and restock exam/treatment rooms with appropriate medical supplies and materials.
- Clean and disinfect areas of the hospital as often as is necessary to maintain high standards of care.
- Ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb as well as manipulate (lift, carry, move) up to 50 pounds.
- Remove and wash soiled laundry and keep clean laundry stocked.
- Maintain the cleanliness of the hospital, including kennel area, runs, treatment area, and outside grounds.
- Notify the Kennel Manager or Supervisor on shift of any unusual medical or behavioral problems.
- Review, comprehends and complies with all SOPs and quality assurance standards pertaining to specific area.
- The role may include assistance with basic patient care such as safe restraint of patients during treatment.
- Operate equipment and uses supplies according to safety guidelines. perform general housekeeping and adheres to safety procedures.
- Associate's Degree in animal sciences.
- Knowledgeable about sterilization and sanitation procedures.
- Hands-on experience with animal care including bathing and grooming.
- Able to display confidence, strong work ethic, and positive attitude.
- Requires meticulous attention to detail.
- Familiar with writing protocols.
How much does an Animal Care Technician make near United States?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$42,440
/ yrAnimal Care Technician Career Path
Learn how to become an Animal Care Technician, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Animal Care Technician Insights
The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel“I worked 50+ hrs one week because they can't keep staff cause it is unsafe and horrible management.”
Rivermist Pet Lodge“things have changed but one of the supervisors were the best and really cared about your well being”
Halo Dogs“They pay and conditions were the best I’ve experienced in the industry and the personal development opportunities were constant.”
PetsMart Group“Pay is terrible and you will be expected to work well past your job description for pennies.”
“I worked on a Saturday from 8am to 12am and earned £25 which was a good pay.”
Jumping Jack Dog Ranch“Culture is fun and they don’t make you lie to owners if a dog is unhappy.”
VCA“Opportunities to work with veterinarians and vet techs to have a better understanding of the industry.”
VCA“Wages are calculated (there's a formula) based on your resume vs negotiated based on skill or competence.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of an Animal Care Technician
- Veterinarian
- Veterinary Technician
- Pet Groomer
- Pet Trainer
