Canada’s pet care industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 500 open positions nationwide paying between $32,000-$72,000 annually. If you love working with animals, now is the perfect time to launch your career in this recession-proof industry.
Why Pet Care Jobs Are in High Demand
The Canadian pet industry has grown 47% since 2020, with 82% of households now owning pets. This boom has created a massive shortage of qualified workers across all pet care sectors – from veterinary clinics to grooming salons.
Industry highlights:
- $3.8 billion annual market size
- 6% year-over-year growth projected through 2030
- 89% job satisfaction rate among workers
- Flexible scheduling options available
Top 6 Pet Care Jobs Available Now
1. Pet Sitter
Salary: $32,000 – $48,000/year | Hourly: $16-$25
Pet sitters provide in-home care for pets while owners are away. This role offers maximum flexibility and can often be done part-time or as a side hustle.
Basic Skills Required:
- Love for animals and basic pet care knowledge
- Reliability and trustworthiness
- Good communication skills with pet owners
- Physical ability to walk dogs and clean litter boxes
- Valid driver’s license (preferred)
- No formal education required
Typical Duties: Feed pets, provide companionship, administer basic medications, light cleaning, send updates to owners
2. Veterinary Assistant
Salary: $30,000 – $60,000/year | Hourly: $15-$28
Veterinary assistants support veterinarians and technicians with basic animal care tasks. This is an excellent entry-level position with opportunities for advancement.
Basic Skills Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Strong stomach for medical procedures
- Ability to restrain animals safely
- Basic computer skills for record keeping
- Physical stamina for lifting animals
- Compassionate bedside manner
Typical Duties: Restrain animals during exams, clean and sterilize equipment, maintain medical records, assist with basic procedures
Apply for Vet Assistant Jobs →
3. Veterinary Technician
Salary: $45,000 – $72,000/year | Hourly: $22-$35
Veterinary technicians are the “nurses” of the animal world. This role requires formal education but offers the highest salaries in pet care.
Basic Skills Required:
- Veterinary technician diploma (2-year program)
- Provincial certification/licensing
- Strong medical knowledge and procedures
- Ability to operate medical equipment
- Excellent attention to detail
- Emergency response skills
Typical Duties: Perform lab tests, take X-rays, administer medications, assist in surgeries, educate pet owners
4. Animal Care Attendant
Salary: $34,000 – $45,000/year | Hourly: $16-$22
Animal care attendants work in shelters, kennels, and boarding facilities, providing daily care for multiple animals.
Basic Skills Required:
- High school education preferred
- Physical stamina for cleaning and lifting
- Ability to work with stressed or aggressive animals
- Basic knowledge of animal behavior
- Team work and communication skills
- Willingness to work weekends/holidays
Typical Duties: Feed and water animals, clean kennels, exercise dogs, monitor health, assist with adoptions
Apply for Care Attendant Jobs →
5. Pet Groomer
Salary: $35,000 – $55,000/year | Hourly: $18-$30 (plus tips)
Pet groomers keep animals clean, healthy, and looking their best. This creative role combines animal care with artistic skills.
Basic Skills Required:
- Patience with anxious animals
- Physical stamina for standing/bending
- Steady hands and attention to detail
- Basic math skills for pricing
- Customer service abilities
- Professional grooming certification (preferred)
Typical Duties: Bathe and dry pets, trim nails, clean ears, style fur, identify skin/health issues
Multiple Opportunities Available:
6. Pet Trainer / Animal Behaviorist
Salary: $40,000 – $65,000/year | Hourly: $20-$32
Pet trainers help pets learn obedience and work with owners to address behavioral issues. This rewarding role directly impacts pet-owner relationships.
Basic Skills Required:
- Strong understanding of animal psychology
- Excellent communication and teaching abilities
- Patience and problem-solving skills
- Physical fitness for handling large dogs
- Business skills if freelancing
- Certification from recognized training organizations
Typical Duties: Conduct training sessions, create behavior modification plans, educate owners, work with aggressive or fearful animals
Getting Started in Pet Care
Most entry-level positions require only a love for animals and willingness to learn. Here’s how to boost your chances:
For Beginners:
- Volunteer at local animal shelters
- Take pet first aid courses
- Gain experience with your own pets or friends’ pets
- Consider part-time positions to test the waters
For Career Advancement:
- Pursue relevant certifications
- Join professional associations
- Attend workshops and continuing education
- Network with other pet care professionals
Work-Life Balance in Pet Care
Pet care jobs offer excellent work-life balance options:
- Flexible scheduling: Many roles offer part-time, evening, and weekend options
- Seasonal work: Summer pet sitting and boarding see increased demand
- Remote opportunities: Pet sitting can be done from clients’ homes
- Career growth: Many professionals advance to supervisory roles or start their own businesses
Current Job Market Trends
High Demand Areas:
- Veterinary technicians (critical shortage nationwide)
- Mobile pet services (grooming, training, sitting)
- Specialized care (senior pets, medical needs)
- Emergency and after-hours care
Fastest Growing Segments:
- Pet insurance and wellness
- Luxury pet services
- Eco-friendly pet care
- Technology-integrated services
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need formal education for pet care jobs?
A: Only veterinary technicians require formal education. Most other roles provide on-the-job training.
Q: Can I work in pet care while studying?
A: Yes! Many positions offer flexible hours perfect for students.
Q: Are these jobs available in smaller communities?
A: Pet care jobs exist nationwide, though veterinary positions may be more limited in rural areas.
Q: What about career advancement?
A: The pet care industry offers excellent advancement opportunities, from supervisor roles to business ownership.
Q: Do I need to be physically strong?
A: Most roles require moderate physical activity. Specific requirements vary by position.
Ready to start your pet care career? Choose the role that matches your interests and skills, then click the application link to begin your journey in Canada’s fastest-growing industry.