10 Lucrative Jobs with Animals That Pay Over $60,000

Introduction

If you love animals and want to make a good living, there are plenty of jobs that pay well. Here are 10 of the most popular:

1. Veterinarian

Veterinarians diagnose and treat animals, perform surgeries, and provide preventive care. They need a bachelor's degree in veterinary medicine, which takes four years to complete. The median annual salary for veterinarians is $99,250.

2. Veterinary Technician

Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians with animal care. They perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medication, and cleaning and bandaging wounds. They need an associate's degree in veterinary technology, which takes two years to complete. The median annual salary for veterinary technicians is $35,990.

3. Animal Trainer

Animal trainers teach animals to perform specific tasks, such as obedience commands, tricks, or stunts. They work with a variety of animals, including dogs, horses, cats, and dolphins. They need a high school diploma or equivalent, and most get on-the-job training. The median annual salary for animal trainers is $29,340.

4. Zookeeper

Zookeepers care for animals in zoos and other captive environments. They feed, clean, and monitor the animals, and they also help with educational programs and research. They need a high school diploma or equivalent, and most get on-the-job training. The median annual salary for zookeepers is $23,940.

5. Animal Control Officer

Animal control officers enforce animal laws and regulations. They respond to complaints about animals, investigate animal cruelty cases, and impound stray animals. They need a high school diploma or equivalent, and most get on-the-job training. The median annual salary for animal control officers is $27,500.

6. Pet Groomer

Pet groomers bathe, brush, and trim animals' fur. They also clean their ears, trim their nails, and check for parasites. They need a high school diploma or equivalent, and most get on-the-job training. The median annual salary for pet groomers is $24,890.

7. Animal Shelter Worker

Animal shelter workers care for animals in shelters. They feed, clean, and exercise the animals, and they also help with adoption and foster care programs. They need a high school diploma or equivalent, and most get on-the-job training. The median annual salary for animal shelter workers is $23,830.

8. Dog Walker

Dog walkers walk dogs for pet owners who are unable to do so themselves. They typically work part-time, and they set their own hours. The median annual salary for dog walkers is $20,570.

9. Pet Sitter

Pet sitters care for pets in their owners' homes while the owners are away. They feed, clean, and exercise the pets, and they may also administer medication and provide other care. The median annual salary for pet sitters is $19,820.

10. Animal Photographer

Animal photographers specialize in taking photographs of animals. They work for a variety of clients, including pet owners, animal shelters, and magazines. They need a strong portfolio of animal photography, and they must be able to work independently. The median annual salary for animal photographers is $17,420.

Conclusion

If you love animals and want to make a good living, there are plenty of jobs to choose from. The 10 jobs listed above are just a few of the many options available. With the right education and experience, you can find a job that pays well and allows you to work with animals every day.

Additional Information

• The median annual salary for all workers in the United States is $49,550.
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the job outlook for animal care and service workers will grow by 2% from 2020 to 2030.
• Animal care and service workers can earn a variety of certifications, such as the Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) and the Certified Animal Care Manager (CACM).

Helpful Resources

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): https://www.avma.org
• National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA): https://www.navta.net
• American Kennel Club (AKC): https://www.akc.org