Animal Care Officer

Animal Care Officers are responsible for the treatment, care, and overall well-being of animals. They help ensure animals live in safe environments, often involving rescue operations for those in distress or harm's way.

Animal Care Officer Job Description

Bathe animals, ensuring their hygiene and comfort.

Check and replenish water and food supply so that animals receive proper nutrition.

Clean and disinfect animal living spaces (E.g. Cages, Kennels or Enclosures) to maintain a healthy and disease-free environment.

Ensure animals are medicated according to Veterinary guidance.

Feed and take care of the needs of injured or elderly animals based on specific care plans.

Maintain proper documentation records of animals for tracking and reference.

Note

Animal Care Officers can also work in Veterinary clinics! Some of them are even trained to vaccinate or euthanise animals when necessary.

A day in the life

Avian Keeper

Watch to see Avian Keeper, Nara from Jurong Bird Park as she unravels how birds behave around visitors vs. keepers. Look out for their surprising interactions!

What you should know about Animal Care Officer jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

You will record and observe animal behaviour. Proficiency in English is key for accurate reports and communication with owners.

Key Advice

Some animals will be aggressive in the beginning due to fear, so exercising patience is important–keen observation and detailed reporting are your best tools.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
It depends! If you would like to work at animal shelters such as the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Singapore, you would be required to have a minimum 'N' Level qualification.

However, if you would like to work under Wildlife Reserves Singapore, you would be required to have a degree in Biology, Veterinary, Life Sciences, or any relevant field. Having knowledge and a passion for animals is also an advantage!

Previous experience with animal care or in a Veterinary setting and a certification in first aid for animals can be advantageous.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue an Animal Care Officer career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Knowledge of animals

Extensive knowledge and understanding of animal behaviour, living needs, and health care essentials.

Experience in handling animals

Skilled in safely managing, restraining, and caring for different kinds of animals.

Physical Fitness

Ability to perform and adjust to physically demanding tasks involved in the care of many kinds of animals.

Soft Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Ability to effectively communicate and foster teamwork when working with colleagues and the public.

Passion for Animal Welfare

Possesses deep commitment and dedication to the health, safety, and rights of animals.

Writing Skills

Proficiency in creating clear, detailed reports and records on animal health and behaviours.

“I enjoy coming to work to take care of our birds the best we can. We have to be there for the animals.”

Nara, Avian Keeper

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are the working hours like for Animal Care Officers?

It depends! Usually, Animal Care Officers would have to work five days a week with the regular working hours. However, Animal Care Officers also have to be willing to work on the weekends and public holidays as animals require care 24/7.
How can I gain experience with handling animals?

There are many ways Animal Care Officers could gain experience in taking care of animals. Animal Care Officers could volunteer at an animal shelter, work at a veterinary clinic or even start pet-sitting!
What is a challenge faced by Animal Care Officers?

Animal Care Officers often need to work with huge numbers of animals all with different need, and it can be quite chaotic for them.
How often do Animal Care Officers have to record the behaviour of the animals?

It is recommended to record the behaviour of the animals daily to look out for any potential behavioural change and the cause of these changes.
Is empathy and emotional intelligence important for this role?

Yes, it is very important for Animal Care Officers to have empathy and emotional intelligence as they need to care for the animals. Without emotional intelligence and empathy, they won't understand the animals' needs.