Animal Magnetism: Careers for Animal Lovers

Love animals? You’re not alone. With pets in over 60% of Australian households and growing awareness around wildlife conservation and ethical farming, careers working with animals are more popular—and more important—than ever.

From pampered pooches to rescued wildlife, a wide range of professions are dedicated to improving animal health, welfare and behaviour. Whether you want a full-time career or a fulfilling side hustle, there’s a pathway for you.

Popular Careers Working with Animals

🐾 Pet Groomer

Many dog breeds require regular grooming—and today’s pet owners are often willing to pay a premium to keep their companions looking and feeling their best. Pet groomers may handle bathing, brushing, clipping, nail trimming, flea control, and even styling pets for shows.

To enter the industry, start with a pet grooming course. It will teach you the practical skills to work for a salon or start your own grooming business.

🐶 Animal Trainer

From obedience training to behavioural correction, animal trainers help pets and owners live in harmony. You’ll learn about how animals learn, communicate, and adapt through conditioning and positive reinforcement techniques.

Get started with a dog training or animal behaviour course to build skills in behaviour modification and socialisation—great for working professionally or training your own dog.

🐕 Animal Attendant

Animal attendants provide daily care for animals in shelters, clinics, kennels, catteries, or zoos. Duties include feeding, grooming, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring animal health and wellbeing.

To work in this hands-on role, consider a Certificate II or III in Animal Studies, which covers practical skills and species-specific care knowledge.

🐾 Veterinary Nurse or Assistant

Vet nurses support veterinarians in diagnosing and treating animals. This includes handling patients, preparing for surgery, taking vital signs, assisting in procedures, and offering post-treatment care.

To become a veterinary nurse in Australia, you’ll typically need a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. For a support role, some clinics hire vet assistants with entry-level qualifications in animal care.

🧬 Zoologist

Zoologists study animal behaviour, genetics, habitats and ecology. They may work in field research, conservation programs, or at zoos and wildlife reserves. Many also contribute to environmental and biodiversity policy.

To become a zoologist, you’ll need a Bachelor of Zoology or Animal Science. You can also specialise in captive animal management or wildlife rehabilitation.

🔬 Animal Technician

Animal technicians care for animals used in scientific research, breeding, and education. Their work supports medical, veterinary and agricultural advancements and requires strict adherence to animal welfare and ethics standards.

Most animal technicians have a qualification in animal science, agriculture, or rural science, depending on the sector (e.g. research, farming, or lab work).

How to Start a Career with Animals

Not sure where to begin? Volunteering at an animal shelter, vet clinic or wildlife rescue centre is a great way to gain experience and decide whether animal care is the right fit for you. It also helps build networks that can lead to paid work or further study.

Key traits for working with animals:

• Patience and empathy
• Good observational skills
• Physical stamina and emotional resilience
• Willingness to learn continuously

If you’re ready to follow your instincts, explore nationally recognised animal care courses online and take the first step toward a rewarding career helping animals live better, healthier lives.