Overall employment of animal care and service workers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.
As more households own pets, employment of animal care and service workers in the pet services industry will continue to grow. Employment in kennels, grooming shops, and pet stores is projected to increase to keep up with the growing demand for animal care.
Job Prospects
Job opportunities are projected to be very good for most positions. Employment growth and high job turnover are expected to result in many openings for dog trainers, groomers, pet sitters, kennel attendants, and caretakers in shelters and rescue leagues.
However, jobseekers will face very strong competition for positions as marine mammal trainers, horse trainers, and zookeepers. The relatively few positions and the popularity of the occupations should result in far more applicants than available positions.
Animal Care and Service Workers
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Personal care and service occupations
13%
Animal trainers
11%
Animal care and service workers
11%
Nonfarm animal caretakers
11%
Total, all occupations
7%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program