Animal care services occupations n.e.c. Salary
Median salary £23,345 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
About this role
Animal care services occupations not elsewhere classified include roles in animal rescue, shelter work, dog grooming, animal behaviourism and other animal care services not covered by veterinary or farming codes.
Key responsibilities
- Providing daily care and welfare for animals
- Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and facilities
- Monitoring animal health and reporting concerns
- Handling, socialising and exercising animals
- Supporting adoption, rehoming or client services
Qualifications and entry routes
No mandatory qualifications for many roles, though animal care qualifications (Level 2/3 City & Guilds, BTEC) are valued. Dog groomers may hold City & Guilds in dog grooming. Kennel Club qualifications for specific roles.
Career outlook
Growing pet ownership supports demand. Animal welfare legislation and growing professionalisation of the sector are raising standards and creating career development opportunities.
Key skills
Common industries
- Animal rescue and rehoming
- Dog grooming
- Boarding kennels and catteries
- Zoos and wildlife parks
- Pet retail
Data coverage
Median Salary
£23,345
Mean Salary
£21,340
Jobs (000s)
25k
Data Years
11 years
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£9,962
0-2 years
Mid Level
£13,556
3-7 years
Senior
£26,372
8-15 years
Potential career growth: +165% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 9.3%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
All Employees
£23,345
Full-time Only
£25,067
Full-time premium: +£1,722
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Lifetime earnings
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