The number of dogs and cats has increased significantly over the last 10 years, and is expected to continue to increase. Despite growth in demand for animal caretakers, the overwhelming majority of jobs will result from the need to replace workers leaving the field. Because these workers have a weak attachment to the occupation, turnover is quite high and the overall availability of jobs should be very good. Much of the work of these animal caretakers is seasonal, particularly during vacation periods. The best prospects should be for graduates of training programs in veterinary technology.
Many employers complain of a shortage of formally trained veterinary technicians.
Job opportunities for certified laboratory animal technicians and technologists are also good. As concern for animal welfare increases, so will the need for certified personnel in laboratories. The outlook for zookeepers is not so favorable. Jobseekers will face keen competition because of expected slow growth in zoo capacity, low turnover, and the fact that the occupation attracts many candidates. Additional opportunities will occur in kennels as owners increasingly focus on the business aspects of the kennel and hire managers to operate the animal care department.