20 Jobs Working With Animals (High-Paying, Entry-Level, And Work-From-Home)

For many, a career centered around animals is a dream come true. The job market offers a diverse array of opportunities—some positions involve working directly with pets or wildlife, while others focus on research or indirect interactions with animals.

If you are passionate about animals, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you seek high-paying roles, flexible work-from-home options, or entry-level positions to kickstart your career, there are plenty of opportunities available to meet your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Some of the most recognized jobs working with animals include veterinarian, dog walker, and zookeeper.

• It is possible to secure a job working with animals without a college degree. However, obtaining a degree can significantly enhance your earning potential.

• Careers involving animals can vary widely, from direct care of pets or wildlife to research and observation roles.

High-Paying Jobs Working With Animals

If you aspire to work with animals while earning a substantial salary, several options are available. Typically, these roles require a degree in animal science, veterinary medicine, or a related field. If you are willing to invest the time and effort, you can enjoy both the companionship of animals and a lucrative career.

1. Veterinarian
   Average Annual Salary: $126,000

   Veterinarians command high salaries due to the extensive educational requirements necessary to enter the field. This profession is often the first that comes to mind for those considering a career with animals, given its prestige and skill level.

   Requirements to become a veterinarian: To become a veterinarian, you must earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE).

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2. Veterinary Surgeon
   Average Annual Salary: $246,000

   If being a veterinarian isn’t challenging or rewarding enough, consider becoming a veterinary surgeon. Much of your work will involve animals under anesthesia, allowing you to significantly impact their quality of life.

   Depending on your specialization, you can establish your own practice or work in settings like zoos or wildlife rehabilitation clinics.

   Requirements to become a veterinary surgeon: This role necessitates a doctorate in veterinary medicine, followed by a three- to four-year residency accredited by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).

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3. Marine Biologist
   Average Annual Salary: $61,804

   If your interests lie more with wildlife than domestic animals, marine biology could be the ideal path for you. This diverse field allows you to study various marine species, from whales and sharks to mollusks and krill.

   Requirements to become a marine biologist: Typically, a bachelor’s and master’s degree in marine biology are needed. A doctoral degree may be beneficial depending on your career aspirations.

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4. Animal Nutritionist
   Average Annual Salary: $75,000

   Understanding the dietary needs of animals is a critical field, making the role of an animal nutritionist a high-paying career. You may work with pet food companies, ranchers, or even zoos to ensure animals receive optimal nutrition.

   Requirements to become an animal nutritionist: A bachelor’s degree in animal health and behavior, animal science, or a related field, along with three years of experience and a Licensed Animal Nutritionist certification, are typically required. Advanced degrees can enhance your prospects.

5. Animal Scientist
   Average Annual Salary: $66,000

   Careers in animal study often yield higher salaries than those involving direct care. If you’re interested in animal husbandry without becoming a rancher, this could be a fulfilling path. Animal scientists study domestic animals to optimize their care and management.

   Requirements to become an animal scientist: A bachelor’s degree in animal science or biology is generally required, along with some experience as a research assistant.

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Entry-Level Jobs Working With Animals

Wondering how to embark on a career with animals? Perhaps college isn’t your path, or you want to gain experience in the field before pursuing your dream role. Regardless of your reasoning, here are some entry-level positions you can consider without prior experience.

1. Pet Care Associate
   Average Annual Salary: $35,000

   If you’re looking for an accessible part-time job with animals, becoming a pet care associate is a great option. Pet stores that sell live animals often need associates to care for them and assist customers in selecting appropriate supplies.

   Requirements to be a pet care associate: A high school diploma is typically sufficient for this role. If you aspire to management, a bachelor’s degree in business or management may be beneficial.

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2. Dog Walker
   Average Annual Salary: $23,000

   Dog walking is an excellent entry-level position that requires no formal qualifications. As pet ownership continues to rise, so does the demand for dog walkers.

   You’ll need to build a client base, but you can set your own schedule and choose which dogs and their owners you wish to work with.

   Requirements to become a dog walker: There are no degree requirements, but a background in animal science or business management can be advantageous if you wish to start your own business or expand your services.

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3. Pet Groomer
   Average Annual Salary: $22,412

   While gaining employment as a pet groomer usually requires training, many grooming salons will offer on-the-job training for new hires. This physically demanding role allows you to help pets look their best.

   Requirements to become a pet groomer: Most grooming positions require on-the-job training. However, taking grooming courses and obtaining certifications can improve your job prospects. A degree in animal science or business management can also be beneficial for those looking to run their own grooming business.

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4. Veterinary Technician
   Average Annual Salary: $32,000

   While becoming a veterinary technician requires some education, it is a role that many can enter straight out of school. Your primary responsibilities will involve assisting veterinarians in maintaining the health of animal patients.

   Requirements to become a veterinary technician: An associate’s degree from an American Veterinary Medical Association accredited school is typically necessary. A bachelor’s degree can enhance your prospects, and certification is required in most states.

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5. Animal Shelter Worker
   Average Annual Salary: $33,000

   Most positions at animal shelters do not require formal education, making this a viable option for those wanting to help animals without a degree. Animal shelters require staff to care for animals, interact with potential adopters, and manage records.

   While this role can be emotionally challenging, it offers the opportunity to help animals find loving homes.

   Requirements to become an animal shelter worker: Basic positions require no degree, but management or specialist roles (such as dog trainers) may necessitate further education or certification.

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Work From Home Jobs Working With Animals

While remote jobs involving animals can be limited, they do exist! If you wish to work with animals from home, consider the following options.

1. Pet Sitter
   Average Annual Salary: $25,000

   You can operate a pet-sitting service from home, offering boarding or daycare for pets while their owners are away. This growing industry allows you to transition a side hustle into a full-time career.

   Requirements to become a pet sitter: While formal requirements are minimal, clients often prefer sitters with extensive pet care experience. Certifications in animal CPR and first aid can also enhance your credibility.

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2. Blogger
   Average Annual Salary: $41,048

   If you have animal knowledge and enjoy writing, you can create a blog focused on animal care, training, or amusing pet stories, potentially monetizing your content.

   Requirements to be a blogger: To succeed as a blogger, you should possess writing skills, understand website management, and be familiar with social media.

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3. Artist
   Average Annual Salary: $72,000

   If you are artistically inclined and love drawing animals, you can turn your passion into a career. Artists can work from home or a studio and sell their creations online, with pet portraits being particularly popular.

   Requirements to become an artist: While formal qualifications aren’t mandatory, artistic talent is essential. A degree in fine arts can enhance both your skills and credibility.

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4. Breeder
   Average Annual Salary: $42,000

   Although entering the breeding business can be complex, it is possible to run a breeding operation from home. Many people achieve success as dog breeders, but there are also opportunities with cats, reptiles, and small mammals.

   It’s crucial to conduct thorough research on animal care and local demand to ensure your breeding endeavors are responsible and successful.

   Requirements to become an animal breeder: No formal education is necessary, but you need extensive knowledge of the breed and compliance with state regulations.

5. Beekeeper
   Average Annual Salary: $40,000

   For those in suitable locations, beekeeping can be a rewarding home-based endeavor. As backyard beekeeping becomes more popular, understanding bee behavior and maintenance is essential for success.

   Requirements to become a beekeeper: No formal requirements exist, but having knowledge of bee behavior and the necessary equipment is crucial for successful hive management.

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Other Jobs Working With Animals

Many careers allow you to work with animals. If the previous options don’t pique your interest, here are more potential careers in animal-related fields.

1. Dog Trainer
   Average Annual Salary: $32,000

   Dog trainers primarily work with dogs and their owners. For those preferring minimal human interaction, some services offer training without owner involvement.

   This role involves lesson planning, understanding dog behavior, and adapting methods to individual dogs. Trainers can work in various settings, including homes, pet stores, or kennels.

   Requirements to become a dog trainer: There are no formal requirements, but understanding dog behavior and training techniques is essential. Completing an apprenticeship or obtaining certification from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) is recommended.

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2. Zookeeper
   Average Annual Salary: $31,016

   The role of a zookeeper varies by facility, with pay and experience requirements differing widely. Some positions require formal education, while others may not.

   Requirements to become a zookeeper: A bachelor’s degree in animal science, zoology, or a related field is often needed. Entry-level jobs may require only an associate degree or relevant experience.

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3. Animal Control Officer
   Average Annual Salary: $46,000

   Animal control officers address community animal-related issues, including capturing strays and managing feral animals. This challenging role can involve difficult decisions, including euthanizing sick or injured animals.

   Requirements to become an animal control officer: Typically, a high school diploma or GED is required, along with experience handling animals. A degree in a related field can broaden opportunities, and some states mandate certification.

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4. Farrier
   Average Annual Salary: $29,000

   For those interested in horses, farriers are skilled tradespeople who care for horse hooves. This role requires knowledge of horse anatomy, metalworking, and behavior.

   While starting salaries may be low, opportunities exist in specialized areas like racing or show horses, where earnings can significantly increase.

   Requirements to become a farrier: Completing a farrier training program is essential, and additional certifications or a degree in equine science can be beneficial.

5. Animal Behaviorist
   Average Annual Salary: $33,000

   Animal behaviorists mainly work with pets exhibiting problematic behaviors. Owners often seek behaviorists as a last resort, which can create additional challenges.

   Understanding animal behavior and guiding pets toward acceptable responses are vital. Behaviorists can operate independently or within kennels or shelters.

   Requirements to become an animal behaviorist: A master’s degree is typically necessary, along with two years of professional experience. Certification from the Animal Behavior Society (ABS) is also recommended.

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Jobs with Animals FAQ

1. What should I study to work with animals?

   To work with animals, consider studying veterinary science, zoology, and environmental science. Veterinary science provides insight into animal anatomy and behavior, while zoology offers a genetic and evolutionary perspective on the animal kingdom. Environmental science is crucial for understanding wildlife habitats and sustainable practices.

   Depending on your career goals, courses in marine biology, farm management, conservation biology, and other fields related to animal biology can also be beneficial pathways to a fulfilling career with animals.

2. Can I work with animals without a degree?

   Yes, many animal-related jobs do not require a degree. Positions such as dog walking, pet sitting, grooming, and training can be pursued without formal education. Additionally, animal breeding does not necessitate a degree, although registration with relevant authorities may be required.

   Many veterinary support and administrative roles also exist that do not require a college degree, particularly if you have customer service or administrative experience.

   Creative positions, like pet artists, photographers, and bloggers, primarily require entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and a commitment to client satisfaction.

3. What is the highest-paid job with animals?

   Veterinarian is the highest-paying career in the field. With an average annual salary of $126,000, the top earners can make $322,000 a year. These salaries reflect the specialized knowledge and skills required, including the necessity of completing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, which typically takes four years post-undergraduate.

4. Is it hard to get a job at a zoo?

   Yes, obtaining a zoo job can be challenging. These positions are highly sought after, as many individuals dream of working with exotic animals. Zoo jobs can be demanding, requiring long hours and constant vigilance.

   Additionally, zoo salaries may not be as high, attracting dedicated but often overqualified candidates.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of pursuing a career with animals is the abundance of opportunities available. If you can envision a job involving animals, it likely exists, and someone is seeking to fill that role. Alternatively, you could start your own business and become your own boss doing what you love.

The field of animal care is vast and varied; you could start by walking or grooming dogs in high school, pursue a veterinary degree, and ultimately provide veterinary care during the day. Then, in your free time, or even during retirement, you could run a kennel caring for others’ animals while they are away.

For those who feel a strong connection to animals, the focus often shifts from salary to passion. Given the range of animal-related jobs available, there is sure to be one that brings joy to your work life.

Author

Kristin Kizer

Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.