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Medical · Army career profile

68T Animal Care Specialist

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.

ASVABST 91
Training10 weeks of Basic Training + 11 weeks of Advanced Individual Training
Physical demandsModerate
ClearanceNo security-clearance requirement is listed on the current public GoArmy profile

What the job involves

Typical duties

  • 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.

Transferable experience

Skills learned

Animal CareDetection & ControlTreatments & ProceduresEnjoy helping and caring for othersRemain calm under stressPhysically and Mentally fit to perform under pressureWorking as a team

Education insight

Training may support future education.

Estimated potential recommendation range: 0–9 semester hours.

EnlistReady estimate based on the longest training segment stated in the current public profile (11 weeks). Actual recommendations appear on an individual Joint Services Transcript and each college decides what it will accept and how credits apply.

Related degree ideas

  • Health Sciences
  • Allied Health

Civilian connection

Potential civilian jobs related to 68T experience.

Military experience does not guarantee civilian employment or a salary outcome. Requirements vary by employer, location, education, certification, licensing, and experience.

Potential role

Veterinary Technician

Illustrative salary information: $38,000–$90,000 illustrative U.S. range; verify the matching BLS occupation and local licensing

Example employers: Hospitals, Clinics, Public health systems

Credential note: Additional education and a civilian license or professional certification are typically required.

Search current Veterinary Technician jobs on Indeed ↗
Potential role

Animal Caretaker

Illustrative salary information: $38,000–$90,000 illustrative U.S. range; verify the matching BLS occupation and local licensing

Example employers: Hospitals, Clinics, Public health systems

Search current Animal Caretaker jobs on Indeed ↗
Potential role

Public Health Disease Ecologist

Illustrative salary information: $38,000–$90,000 illustrative U.S. range; verify the matching BLS occupation and local licensing

Example employers: Hospitals, Clinics, Public health systems

Credential note: A college degree may be required or preferred; some employers may also require professional certification or licensing.

Search current Public Health Disease Ecologist jobs on Indeed ↗

Verify important details

Official and supporting sources

Keep exploring

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