Animal Handling
Animal Handling refers to the ability to safely and effectively work with, control, and care for various types of animals. This skill is essential in veterinary clinics, zoos, animal shelters, farms, and research facilities. It involves knowing how to approach, restrain, and move animals while ensuring both human and animal safety. When you see this term in a resume, it means the candidate has experience working directly with animals and understands their behavior, body language, and proper safety protocols. Similar terms include animal care, animal management, or animal restraint.
Examples in Resumes
Provided care for 30+ animals daily using safe Animal Handling techniques
Trained new staff members in proper Animal Handling and restraint methods
Applied Animal Handling skills while assisting veterinarians with medical procedures
Typical job title: "Animal Care Workers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Animal Care Workers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple animals need emergency care simultaneously?
Expected Answer: A senior handler should discuss prioritization skills, emergency protocols, team coordination, and maintaining calm while managing multiple urgent situations. They should mention experience training others and establishing safety procedures.
Q: Describe your experience developing animal care protocols and training programs.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience in creating standardized procedures, training materials, and safety guidelines. Should discuss how they've implemented and improved animal care systems.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you approach handling an aggressive or fearful animal?
Expected Answer: Should explain reading animal body language, using appropriate restraint techniques, knowing when to ask for help, and maintaining safety for all involved while showing compassion for the animal.
Q: What documentation and record-keeping practices do you follow when handling animals?
Expected Answer: Should discuss tracking animal behavior, medical needs, feeding schedules, and any incidents. Should mention importance of clear communication between team members.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic safety equipment do you use when handling animals?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list common safety gear like gloves, leads, muzzles, and protective clothing, and explain when each should be used.
Q: How do you safely approach and handle a cat or dog you've never met before?
Expected Answer: Should describe proper approach techniques, reading basic body language, allowing animal to become comfortable, and using appropriate restraint methods.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic animal restraint techniques
- Understanding of common animal behaviors
- Knowledge of safety protocols
- Basic cleaning and feeding duties
Mid (2-4 years)
- Handling multiple types of animals
- Emergency response procedures
- Medication administration
- Training newer staff members
Senior (5+ years)
- Developing handling protocols
- Managing complex medical cases
- Training program development
- Emergency situation management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with animals
- Lack of knowledge about basic safety protocols
- Fear or discomfort around animals
- No understanding of animal body language
- Poor record-keeping habits
