Description
Handle, move, and care for animals in facilities, transport, shows, research, or security settings, ensuring safety and welfare for animals and people. Accustom animals to human contact and basic handling cues, monitor health and behavior, and maintain clean, secure environments. Assist veterinarians and trainers, and prepare animals for performances, procedures, or travel in accordance with established protocols.
- • Observe animals' physical condition to detect illness or distress.
- • Feed, water, and exercise animals; clean and maintain enclosures and equipment.
- • Administer prescribed medications or treatments as directed by veterinarians.
- • Monitor and record animal health, diet, behavior, and handling incidents.
- • Acclimate animals to human voices, touch, and basic handling cues.
- • Safely restrain, lead, load, or move animals between enclosures, vehicles, or work areas.
- • Use appropriate restraints, halters, muzzles, crates, or barriers to protect animals and people.
- • Evaluate behavior and temperament to plan safe handling approaches.
- • Assist veterinarians, technicians, and trainers during exams, procedures, or training sessions.
- • Prepare animals and gear for shows, demonstrations, transport, or procedures.
- • Handle and cue animals during performances under trainer direction.
- • Implement enrichment and conditioning routines to reduce stress and support welfare.
- • Sanitize holding, transport, and performance areas to maintain biosecurity.
- • Follow species-specific handling protocols and legal or facility safety regulations.
- • Respond to emergencies, escapes, or aggressive behavior using approved techniques.
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Agriculture
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
