What’s Involved in a Career as an Animal Attendant

As with most careers, an interest in Animals and their welfare is required in order to be successful as an Animal Attendant. An animal attendant will usually work in animal shelters (RSPCA, Guide Dog Centres), pet shops, kennels, zoos or animal rescue centres.

There are many ways to get into a career as an Animal Attendant. They range from volunteer positions to positions that require tertiary qualifications. Form most Attendant positions no formal education is required as there is a high level of on-job training and attendants work with other people who will have had formal training for their own positions (such as vets and Zookeepers).

Duties of an Animal Attendant include watering, feeding, cleaning, washing, treating small injuries, keeping records, public relations and awareness and general care of animals. People in this profession need to be caring, passionate, able to work with a team as well as autonomously and flexible in working hours.

A tertiary degree, however, will be highly regarded. A course such as Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Zoology or a TAFE course such as Animal studies, Equines Studies or animal welfare will all be assets when applying for an Animal Attendant position.

This industry does not have a large number of positions available for new graduates and interested parties. Additionally, animal attendants are generally poorly paid with the average salary being around $38K.

Find a position as an Animal Attendant and more information here.