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68T

Animal Care Specialist

Job Overview

  • Enlisted
  • Officer
  • Active Duty
  • Army Reserve
  • Army National Guard
  • Entry Level

As an Animal Care Specialist, you'll provide medical care, management, and treatment for government-owned animals, including K-9 units, ceremonial horses, and the pets of Soldiers and their families. You will prevent and control the spread of diseases from animals to humans. You'll also help Army veterinarians conduct routine exams, administer medications, and perform surgical and emergency procedures for animals. It’ll be your responsibility to ensure the best possible treatment, so the animals can provide a great service to the Army.

Requirements

  • 10 weeks of Basic Training
  • 11 weeks of Advanced Individual Training
  • 91 ASVAB Score: Skilled Technician (ST)
  • A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card
  • 17 to 34 Years Old
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Meet Tattoo Guidelines
  • No Major Law Violations
  • No Medical Concerns
SEE ALL REQUIREMENTS STEPS TO JOIN

Skills You’ll Learn

  • Animal Care & Training
  • Detection & Control
  • Treatments & Procedures

Certifications

  • 20 Nationally Recognized Certifications Available
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What to know before you join

Here are some things you might want to know before you take the next step. You can always reach out to your recruiter for more specific details.

What can I do if I don’t meet the eligibility requirements to join?
The Army has a waiver process that you can take advantage of to prove you overcame a disqualifying issue that would otherwise prevent you from joining the Army. After submitting a waiver, a review takes place to make sure you can join. If your waiver is denied, you can also look into pursuing a civilian career within the Army.
What are the physical requirements to join the Army?
For both the enlisted Soldier and commissioned Officer paths, you’ll need to meet the height and weight requirements for your age and gender before joining. A recruiter will work with you after you join to meet the physical requirements of your chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) evaluates your physical and mental abilities, starting at Basic Training for enlisted Soldiers and during initial training for those commissioning as Officers. Everyone will need to pass the ACFT during training and again several times a year for every year of service. Scores are recorded twice a year for active duty Soldiers in the Army, or once a year for members of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard. The Army will be there to support your growth with resources during every step of the evaluation process to ensure your success.
Do I need to attend Basic Training?
Before you can become a Soldier, you’ll first need to complete a form of Basic Training—Basic Combat Training for enlisted Soldiers and the Basic Officer Leadership Course for Army Officers, as well as any additional training your job may require. Over the course of your training, you’ll learn the skills, knowledge, and discipline needed to become a Soldier. Active-duty Soldiers and Officers also have ongoing training to keep their skills sharp, so they stay ready for anything.
How does Army pay compare to civilian pay?
Your Army salary is just one part of the total compensation Soldiers earn. While civilian jobs may pay higher baseline salaries, the Army offers a starting salary above the federal minimum wage, plus a variety of benefits on top of your base pay that add up. When you consider affordable health care for part-time Soldiers and free health care for full-time Soldiers, plus access to bonuses, allowances for housing, food, and clothing, education benefits to get a college degree with less debt, and more financial benefits, the Army offers a competitive choice to similar civilian careers.
What benefits will I receive as a Soldier?
The Army offers a complete package of benefits that not only supports you and your family, but also helps you advance in your career. Whether you serve part-time or full-time as an enlisted Soldier or Army Officer, you’ll earn competitive pay with opportunities for bonuses, as well as receive health care at little to no cost. You could also receive money for education, student loan repayment assistance, training and certifications, housing, living expenses, and more.
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