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How much do animal assisted occupational therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal assisted occupational therapy in the United States is $32.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animal assisted occupational therapy?

An Animal Assisted Occupational Therapy (AAOT) job involves using trained animals as part of occupational therapy to help patients improve physical, emotional, and cognitive functions. Therapists incorporate animals into therapy sessions to enhance engagement, reduce stress, and motivate patients in their rehabilitation. This approach is often used for individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, or developmental disorders. Professionals in this role must have expertise in occupational therapy as well as knowledge of animal behavior and care. AAOT can take place in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, or private practice settings.

What types of animals are commonly involved in animal assisted occupational therapy, and how are they selected?

Animal Assisted Occupational Therapy most commonly involves trained therapy dogs, but may also include other animals such as horses, cats, or rabbits depending on the facility and client needs. Animals are carefully selected based on their temperament, behavior, health, and compatibility with clients, and must typically pass specific training and certification processes to participate in therapeutic sessions. The occupational therapist collaborates closely with animal handlers to ensure the safety and welfare of both animals and clients throughout therapy sessions. The selection and use of animals is tailored to therapeutic goals, participant preferences, and the clinical setting, making flexibility and proper assessment skills crucial in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in animal assisted occupational therapy, and why are they important?

Excelling in Animal Assisted Occupational Therapy requires a degree in occupational therapy, state licensure, and specialized training in animal-assisted interventions. Practitioners typically utilize tools for client assessment, treatment planning software, and must often complete continuing education or certification in animal-assisted therapy practices. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and the ability to collaborate with animal handlers and other healthcare professionals are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure effective, ethical integration of animals into client treatments, enhancing therapeutic outcomes and client engagement.

More about Animal Assisted Occupational Therapy jobs
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Animal Assisted Occupational Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Assisted Occupational Therapy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,763 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Occupational Therapy

Carolina Pediatric Therapy

Waynesville, NC • On-site

$37 - $48.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description:

**5,000 Welcome Bonus**

Build a Profession You’re Excited About — Not Just a Job

Are you an Occupational Therapist looking for more than just a caseload? Do you want clear growth opportunities, real collaboration, and a workplace that actually protects your time?

At Carolina Pediatric Therapy, we believe great clinicians deserve great support. We’re seeking passionate, growth-minded OTs who want to deepen their skills, work alongside an interdisciplinary team, and make a meaningful impact on children and families--all while maintaining sustainable clinical practices.


We’re Looking for Clinicians Who:
  • Love collaborating as part of an interdisciplinary team
  • Want to help shape and grow a thriving pediatric program
  • Are curious, motivated learners who value professional growth
Why Carolina Pediatric Therapy?

We’re a mission-driven, dynamic pediatric therapy practice providing integrated care for children ages birth through 21. Just as importantly, we invest deeply in our clinicians—because when our team thrives, our families do too.

Our clinicians enjoy:

  • Daily protected time for planning and collaboration
  • Weekly protected time for professional growth through learning collaboratives
  • Multiple supports for efficient, ethical documentation—including customizable templates, AI-assisted tools, and collaborative documentation—so notes don’t follow you home
  • Flexible schedule options to support work-life balance
  • Opportunities to work across clinics, daycares, schools, homes, community settings, and telehealth
  • A clear, structured pathway for career advancement
About the Role

Occupational Therapists at Carolina Pediatric Therapy evaluate and treat a wide range of developmental, sensory, and motor-based needs. You’ll use engaging, evidence-based interventions to support children’s participation in daily activities—across play, self-care, and learning environments—making therapy meaningful and impactful.


What You Can Expect:
  • Embedded mentorship program for new team members
  • True interdisciplinary collaboration with OTs, PTs, SLPs, Psychology, and Behavioral Health clinicians
  • A supportive, positive culture rooted in vision, purpose, and teamwork
  • Ongoing staff development and learning opportunities
Compensation & Benefits:
  • Competitive pay rates
  • Medical health insurance
  • Continuing education allowance
  • 3 weeks PTO starting your first year
  • Up to 10 paid holidays
  • Mental health benefit / EAP
  • Life insurance
  • Optional supplemental insurance (dental, vision, vision, etc.)
  • 401(k)
Requirements:
  • Licensed as an Occupational Therapist in NC
  • 2+ years of experience preferred (strong pediatric candidates with less experience encouraged to apply)
  • Bilingual skills a plus
  • Feeding experience a plus

Ready to grow your career in a place that values you as much as your work?
Learn more at www.CarolinaPeds.com and discover how you can make a lasting difference.