How much does a Animal Care Attendant make?
Animal Care Attendants play a vital role in caring for animals in various settings, such as zoos, veterinary clinics, and animal shelters. The average yearly salary for this position is around $32,321. This salary can vary based on experience and the specific organization.
The salary distribution for Animal Care Attendants shows a range from about $23,000 to $52,480 annually. Many attendants start at the lower end of this range, but with experience, they can move up to higher pay. Factors that can influence salary include the type of facility, the size of the organization, and the region where the attendant works.
What are the highest paying cities for a Animal Care Attendant?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $48,502
In San Francisco, you can find rewarding positions in animal shelters and luxury pet services. Notable companies like SPCA SF and Wag! offer opportunities to care for animals in a vibrant city.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $45,286
Vallejo provides diverse animal care roles in local shelters and veterinary clinics. Employers such as the Solano-Napa SPCA look for dedicated individuals to support their animal care services.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $43,891
Denver offers many opportunities in animal care with its many pet care facilities and animal shelters. Companies like The Pet Institute seek professionals who are passionate about animal well-being.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $43,733
San Diego is a hub for animal care jobs with various roles in animal shelters and zoos. Employers such as the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance offer exciting opportunities for animal care attendants.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $43,577
Anchorage provides numerous animal care positions in both urban and rural settings. Local animal shelters and veterinary practices seek compassionate individuals to care for animals in unique environments.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,574
Seattle offers a range of animal care jobs in shelters and veterinary clinics. Organizations like the Humane Society of the United States provide fulfilling roles for those dedicated to animal welfare.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $43,296
Los Angeles is known for its diverse animal care opportunities in shelters and specialty pet care facilities. Companies such as Best Friends Animal Society offer many roles for those passionate about animal care.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $42,026
Fresno has a growing need for animal care professionals in both urban and rural areas. Employers such as the Fresno SPCA seek dedicated individuals to support their animal care services.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $42,000
Santa Maria offers animal care positions in local shelters and veterinary clinics. Employers such as Animal Friends seek individuals who are passionate about animal care.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $41,483
Chicago provides many animal care opportunities in shelters and veterinary practices. Companies like the Chicago Animal Care and Control look for dedicated professionals to care for animals in the city.
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What are the best companies a Animal Care Attendant can work for?

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Manatee County Government
Average Salary: $48,720
Manatee County Government offers rewarding Animal Care Attendant jobs. They provide comprehensive benefits and support a healthy work-life balance. Their locations include Manatee County, Florida.
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City of San Antonio
Average Salary: $42,253
The City of San Antonio provides exciting Animal Care Attendant positions. This role focuses on caring for animals in shelters across San Antonio, Texas.
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San Diego Humane Society
Average Salary: $42,250
San Diego Humane Society offers a supportive environment for Animal Care Attendants. They provide various training opportunities. Locations include San Diego, California.
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Maui Humane Society
Average Salary: $38,714
Maui Humane Society values their Animal Care Attendants. They offer rewarding work with animals. Their primary location is in Maui, Hawaii.
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Best Friends Pet Care INC
Average Salary: $38,375
Best Friends Pet Care INC hires Animal Care Attendants for various pet care tasks. They provide flexible schedules and a supportive community. Locations include multiple cities across the U.S.
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Charles River Laboratories
Average Salary: $36,643
Charles River Laboratories offers Animal Care Attendant jobs with a focus on scientific research. They provide training and career development opportunities. Their locations are in several states.
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NEVADA HUMANE SOCIETY
Average Salary: $35,368
NEVADA HUMANE SOCIETY provides caring Animal Care Attendant positions. They focus on animal welfare and support a compassionate work environment. Their main location is in Nevada.
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Community Animal Hospital
Average Salary: $35,000
Community Animal Hospital offers Animal Care Attendant roles with a focus on veterinary care. They provide a supportive team environment. Locations include several cities across the U.S.
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VCA Animal Hospitals
Average Salary: $33,997
VCA Animal Hospitals provides rewarding Animal Care Attendant jobs. They offer a collaborative and supportive workplace. Their locations span multiple cities across the U.S.
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LifeLine Animal Project
Average Salary: $33,900
LifeLine Animal Project hires Animal Care Attendants for their no-kill animal shelters. They focus on providing compassionate care. Their primary location is in California.
How to earn more as a Animal Care Attendant?
Becoming an Animal Care Attendant involves a deep love for animals and a commitment to their well-being. However, there are ways to earn more in this rewarding field. Enhancing skills and knowledge often leads to higher pay. Seeking additional certifications, such as in animal first aid or specialized care, can boost earning potential. Gaining experience in various animal care settings, like veterinary clinics or zoos, broadens job opportunities and can increase salary.
Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to discovering higher-paying positions. Sharing experiences and job opportunities through professional groups on social media or at industry events can open doors to better-paying roles. Volunteering for extra duties or taking on leadership roles, such as supervising junior staff, can also lead to higher compensation. Staying informed about industry trends and advancements in animal care can provide insights into new, potentially higher-paying roles.
To earn more as an Animal Care Attendant, consider the following factors:
- Obtain additional certifications
- Gain experience in different settings
- Network with industry professionals
- Volunteer for extra duties or leadership roles
- Stay informed about industry trends



