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Animal Assisted Intervention Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HHC

Pet Therapy Program

Indianapolis, IN

$46K - $62K/yr

... experience animal assisted activity/therapy. Therapy animals are trained to provide supervised, goal-directed interventions to clients in the hospital and specific treatment sites. Duties ...

Calo Programs

Clinical Manager

Osage Beach, MO · On-site

Design, facilitate, and oversee Adventure Therapy programming, including animal-assisted and canine ... A.R.T. goals, in-the-moment coaching, group sessions, and crisis intervention as needed

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How much do animal assisted intervention jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal assisted intervention in the United States is $50,712.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Animal Assisted Intervention job?

An Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) job involves using trained animals to support therapeutic, educational, or healthcare goals for individuals in need. Professionals in this field, such as therapists or handlers, work with animals to improve a person's physical, emotional, or social well-being. These interventions can take place in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes. The role requires knowledge of animal behavior, patient care, and sometimes specialized certifications. AAI professionals collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective interactions between animals and clients.

Is animal-assisted therapy a good career?

Animal-assisted therapy is a recognized profession that involves working with animals to support mental and physical health. It often requires specialized training, certifications, and a background in healthcare, education, or social work. The career can be rewarding but may involve irregular hours and physical demands depending on the setting.

What is the highest paying job in animal welfare?

In animal welfare, senior roles such as Animal Welfare Director or Chief Veterinarian typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and may involve overseeing programs, policy development, or specialized veterinary care.

How to get a job in animal-assisted therapy?

To work in animal-assisted therapy, individuals typically need a background in healthcare, psychology, or social work, along with experience working with animals. Certification programs in animal-assisted therapy or related fields can enhance job prospects, and strong interpersonal skills are essential for working with clients and animals in therapeutic settings.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Animal Assisted Intervention?

A typical day in Animal Assisted Intervention involves conducting therapy sessions where you facilitate interactions between clients and specially trained animals to support emotional, psychological, or physical well-being. You may work individually or as part of a multidisciplinary team, sometimes rotating between different settings such as schools, healthcare facilities, or community centers. Daily responsibilities often include assessing client progress, maintaining records, and ensuring the welfare and readiness of your therapy animals. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals and regular animal care routines are integral parts of the job. Flexibility and adaptability are important, as schedules may vary based on client needs and program requirements.

What is the highest paying job in animal care?

In animal care, veterinary surgeons or veterinarians typically earn the highest salaries, especially those specializing in exotic or large animals. These roles require advanced degrees, licensing, and often involve working in private practices, research, or specialized clinics, with salaries varying based on experience and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Animal Assisted Intervention position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Animal Assisted Intervention, you need a solid background in animal behavior, basic therapeutic techniques, and often a degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related health profession. Certification in animal-assisted therapy and familiarity with assessment tools and documentation systems are typically required, alongside training for handling therapy animals. Excellent communication, patience, and emotional intelligence are vital soft skills for building rapport with clients and managing unique scenarios involving animals. These abilities support safe, effective interventions and positive outcomes for both participants and therapy animals.

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Animal Assisted Intervention jobs near you
Facility Dog Handler - Full Time - 1st Shift

Facility Dog Handler - Full Time - 1st Shift

Dayton Children's Hospital

Naval Anacost Annex, DC

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Dayton Children's Hospital rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

398th of 1,020 rated hospitals

Job description

Facility:Dayton Children's - Main CampusDepartment:Child Life ServicesSchedule:Full timeHours:40Job Details:The facility dog handler will utilize the facility dog as a tool to provide goal oriented therapeutic interventions for patients undergoing treatment at Dayton Children's. The handler will provide therapeutic interventions within their clinical scope that will address the emotional, behavioral, receptive/expressive, cognitive and physical needs of patients. On behalf of Dayton Children's, the handler is responsible for the daily care and control of the facility dog, which may include, but is not limited to maintaining a safe/clean work/rest environment, feeding/weight management, veterinary care, grooming/cleanliness, and ongoing teaching/training.
Under the direct supervision of the Child Life Manager, the Facility Dog Handler will be responsible for providing goal oriented therapeutic interventions and collaborating with other members of the health care team. They will also maintain appropriate records and keep their level of professional knowledge at an acceptable level.
Education
Bachelor's in child development or social services related field required
Certifications
CCLS - Certified Child Life Specialist or Certified Recreation Therapists or Licensure with the Ohio Counselor, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy Board (to include Licensed Professional Musical Therapist) preferred
Experience
1-3 yrs pediatric healthcare experience required. Experience with Animal Assisted therapy preferred

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