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Animal Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PrimRose Hospice

Hospice Companion

Garden City, UT · On-site

Animal Therapy (if your animal qualifies) * Music (sing or play an instrument) * Art ( hand sculptures, paint or draw with patients) * Light housekeeping or yardwork * Respite sitting (stay with ...

Astrix Inc

Animal Technician

Plano, TX · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... therapies! Must have previous Animal husbandry experience to qualify! Vet technicians who are looking to make an impact within oncology research would be a great fit for this role! Schedule : Mon ...

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Animal Therapy information

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$10

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$26

How much do animal therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal therapy in the United States is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animal therapy?

Animal therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy (AAT), is a therapeutic intervention that incorporates animals, such as dogs, cats, horses, or other pets, into the treatment process. The presence of animals can help promote emotional and physical well-being, reduce stress, and improve social or cognitive functioning in patients. Animal therapy is used in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and mental health facilities, to support individuals coping with health issues, trauma, or developmental challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Therapist, you need expertise in animal behavior, therapeutic techniques, and usually a relevant degree or certification in animal-assisted therapy or veterinary fields. Familiarity with behavioral assessment tools, therapy protocols, and safety procedures is often required. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication skills help build trust with both animals and clients. These competencies are crucial for effectively facilitating therapeutic outcomes and ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants.

What are some common challenges faced by animal therapists when working with clients and their animals?

Animal therapists often encounter challenges such as building trust between the animal and client, managing unpredictable animal behavior, and ensuring the safety and comfort of both parties during sessions. Additionally, therapists must adapt their techniques to suit different animal personalities and client needs, which can require creativity and patience. Collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and other healthcare professionals is also essential to provide holistic care, making strong communication skills a valuable asset in this role.

What is the difference between Animal Therapy vs Animal-Assisted Activities?

AspectAnimal TherapyAnimal-Assisted Activities
CredentialsCertified Animal Therapists or trained professionals with certifications in therapy animal programsGenerally no formal certification; involves volunteers or handlers
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, therapy centers, nursing homesCommunity events, schools, recreational settings
PurposeProvide targeted therapeutic benefits to individuals with specific needsEnhance well-being and social interaction, less clinical focus
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health, rehabilitation servicesNonprofits, community programs, educational institutions

Animal Therapy involves trained professionals providing structured therapeutic interventions using animals, often in clinical settings. In contrast, Animal-Assisted Activities are more casual, aimed at improving general well-being without specific therapeutic goals. Both roles involve working with animals, but their credentials, environments, and objectives differ significantly.

How do you become an animal therapist?

To become an animal therapist, individuals typically need a background in animal behavior, psychology, or therapy, along with specialized training in animal-assisted therapy. Certification from recognized organizations and experience working with animals and clients are often required to practice professionally.

How to get a job in animal therapy?

To work in animal therapy, individuals typically need a background in healthcare, psychology, or social work, along with experience working with animals. Certification programs in animal-assisted therapy are available and can enhance job prospects, while strong communication and empathy skills are essential for working with clients and animals. Gaining practical experience through volunteering or internships can also improve chances of employment in this field.

Is animal-assisted therapy a good career?

Animal-assisted therapy is a growing field that involves working with trained animals to support mental and physical health. It typically requires certification, knowledge of animal behavior, and strong interpersonal skills. The career can be rewarding but may involve irregular hours and physical demands depending on the setting.
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What cities are hiring for Animal Therapy jobs?

Cities with the most Animal Therapy job openings:

What states have the most Animal Therapy jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Animal Therapy jobs look for?

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Animal Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Therapy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,056 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

*Volunteer - Pet Therapy Volunteer Team (Handler & Certified Therapy Animal)

Adirondack Health

Saranac Lake, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Adirondack Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

*VOLUNTEER POSITION*
Position Summary:
Adirondack Health's Pet Therapy Program offers staff moments of comfort, connection, and joy. As a Pet Therapy Volunteer Team, you and your certified therapy animal will play a meaningful role in enhancing the healing environment across our hospital and clinical settings.
  • Visit staff in designated areas
  • Provide emotional support through safe, positive animal interaction
  • Follow all hospital safety, infection prevention, and volunteer protocols
  • Represent Adirondack Health with professionalism and compassion

Handler Requirements/ Qualifications:
  1. Age 18+
  2. Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  3. Calm, professional, and dependable
  4. Ability to always manage and control your animal therapy
  5. Commitment to patient privacy and confidentiality (HIPAA compliance)
  6. Completion of Adirondack Health volunteer onboarding process

Therapy Animal Requirements/ Qualifications:
  1. Certified through a recognized organization such as:
  • Pet Partners
  • Therapy Dogs International
  • Alliance of Therapy Dogs
  1. Current vaccinations and veterinary health clearance required
  2. Friendly, calm, and well-socialized temperament
  3. Clean, well-groomed, and bathed prior to each visit
  4. Reliable obedience and comfort in healthcare environments

Time Commitment:
  1. Minimum: 1�2 visits per month
  2. Consistent participation helps ensure a reliable and impactful program

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