Animal Keeper
どうぶつしいくがかり
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that involves managing the care of animals in zoos, aquariums, research facilities, pet shops, etc., handling health maintenance, breeding, and maintenance of rearing environments.
Description
Animal keepers work in zoos, aquariums, research institutions, animal welfare facilities, pet shops, etc., and are responsible for the care and management of a wide variety of animal species. Specifically, they handle feeding, cleaning, maintenance of rearing environments, behavior observation, health management, record-keeping, assistance with breeding programs, collaboration with veterinarians, safety measures, and explanations to visitors. They utilize knowledge of animal ecology and behavior to provide care tailored to the characteristics of individual animals, while striving to maintain and improve rearing environments that consider animal welfare.
Future Outlook
Demand for specialized keepers remains stable due to increasing awareness of animal welfare and the growth of ecotourism. However, budget constraints in public facilities and intensifying competition require the acquisition of more advanced knowledge and skills.
Personality Traits
Excellent Observation Skills / Loves Animals / Patient / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Outdoor Work / Physically Demanding Work / Seasonal Variations / Shift Work
Career Path
Rearing Assistant → Animal Keeper → Senior Keeper → Team Leader → Rearing Manager
Required Skills
Animal Health Management / Animal Rearing Management / Animal Welfare Management / Breeding Management / Cleaning and Disinfection of Rearing Environments
Recommended Skills
Basic Knowledge of Animal Medicine / Communication Skills (Veterinarian Collaboration) / English Literature Reading / Ethology
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Necessary to flexibly respond to individual differences and behavioral changes in animals. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Necessary to detect early signs of illness or abnormal behavior. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Necessary to learn the ecology of a wide variety of animal species. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Required due to long hours of heavy labor and frequent outdoor work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Only simple measurements and record-keeping are needed; advanced mathematical analysis is not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Animal Handling Manager Qualification
- Companion Animal Management Technician
Aliases
- Animal Caretaker
- Animal Keeper
Related Jobs
- Aquarium Keeper
- Livestock Keeper
- Pet Groomer
- Veterinary Nurse