Animal Care Specialist; Soldier

Overview

An animal care specialist in the Army is responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of military animals, which include working dogs, horses, and other service animals. Duties involve providing routine and emergency medical care, such as vaccinations, surgeries, and treatments for injuries and illnesses. They assist veterinarians during examinations and surgical procedures, administer medications, and perform diagnostic tests. They oversee the daily care of animals, including feeding, grooming, and exercising them to maintain their fitness and readiness.

They maintain detailed medical records for each animal and ensure that all care complies with military standards and regulations. They may also train animals for specific tasks, such as detection, patrol, or ceremonial duties, ensuring they are fit for their roles. Their work is essential for the operational effectiveness and safety of military units that rely on animals for critical missions.

• Provide routine and emergency medical care for military animals, including vaccinations, treatments, and procedures.
• Assist veterinarians during examinations and surgeries; administer medications and perform diagnostic tests.
• Oversee daily animal care, including feeding, grooming, and exercise to maintain fitness and readiness.
• Maintain detailed medical records for each animal and ensure compliance with military standards and regulations.
• Involve in training animals for specific tasks (e.g., detection, patrol, ceremonial duties) and assess fitness for roles.
• Contribute to the operational effectiveness and safety of military units relying on animals for missions.

• Housing & Lodging: Soldiers in this position may receive additional compensation for housing and lodging costs for themselves and immediate family members, in addition to salary. Rates are referenced through official military housing entitlements.
• Premium Healthcare Benefits: TRICARE Health Plan coverage for service members and families; no-cost healthcare for active-duty members; dental, vision, and prescription coverage; mental health services; maternity/paternity benefits; long-term care resources.
• Education Benefits: Full tuition coverage for qualified students with merit-based scholarships and grants; GI Bill benefits;
  Tuition Assistance grants; student loan repayment programs; additional education opportunities information available through official Army education resources.
• VA Home Loan: Eligibility for the VA Home Loan Program to purchase a home with favorable terms; service thresholds apply and lender criteria must be met. More information available through VA and Army benefits resources.
• Equal Opportunity Employer statement:
  The U.S. Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or protected veteran status.