Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s evolving world, the focus on Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators has never been greater.

The landscape of therapeutic animal interactions is constantly progressing, and with each stride, the demand for competent individuals who can organize, manage, and enhance our animal-assisted activities increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the profound impact of animal-assisted activities,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators work with animals to provide therapeutic and recreational activities for individuals in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and schools.

They combine a love for animals with a passion for helping people to create a nurturing and beneficial environment for all participants.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning, coordinating, and facilitating animal-assisted activities in various settings
• Assessing the suitability of animals for participation in therapeutic and recreational activities
• Training and preparing animals for interaction with individuals, including those with special needs
• Observing and monitoring animal behavior during activities to ensure safety and comfort of both the animal and the individual
• Working closely with healthcare professionals and educators to integrate animal-assisted activities into therapy or educational plans
• Documenting and evaluating the effectiveness of animal-assisted activities
• Maintaining a clean and healthy environment for the animals
• Adhering to all relevant health and safety regulations
• Providing education and awareness about animal-assisted activities to the public, staff, and volunteers

 

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and implementing therapeutic activities involving animals for our clients.

The Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator’s responsibilities include assessing the needs of clients, planning and executing animal-assisted activities, maintaining animal health and safety, and keeping accurate records.

Our ideal candidate has a deep love for animals, is knowledgeable about animal behavior, and understands how interaction with animals can bring therapeutic benefits.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and conduct animal-assisted activities for individuals or groups
• Assess client needs and develop appropriate animal-assisted activity plans
• Ensure the welfare and safety of animals involved in the program
• Monitor and document client progress and responses during activities
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations regarding animal care and therapy
• Coordinate with healthcare or educational professionals to align activities with client goals
• Develop and maintain relationships with animal owners and handlers
• Provide training and support for volunteers and staff involved in the program

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a related field, such as therapy, education, or animal care
• Knowledge of animal behavior and handling
• Understanding of the therapeutic benefits of animal interaction
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work with diverse populations, including individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities
• Current CPR and First Aid certification
• Degree in related field preferred (e.g., Occupational Therapy, Social Work, Animal Science)

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development in the field of animal-assisted therapy

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator
• Work Environment: Various settings, including healthcare facilities, schools, or outdoor environments. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Therapeutic Services or similar role.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Do?

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators typically work in various types of healthcare facilities, mental health institutions, educational settings, or rehabilitation centers.

They can also work for non-profit organizations that use animals as part of their therapeutic programs.

They work closely with healthcare providers, therapists, and educators to plan and implement animal-assisted activities that are designed to improve the emotional, cognitive, physical, and social conditions of their clients or patients.

Their job is to match the right animal to the right activity and individual, taking into consideration the specific needs and preferences of each patient or client.

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators are responsible for training animals and their handlers, ensuring they meet the standards and regulations of animal-assisted therapy.

They also manage and maintain records of the animals’ health and behavior, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the animals and the people they interact with.

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators play an integral part in helping individuals recover or cope with illnesses, disabilities, or psychological problems through the beneficial human-animal bond.

 

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

An effective Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator should possess a blend of technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of both human and animal behaviors.

• Animal handling skills and a comprehensive understanding of animal behavior to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both animals and participants.
• Exceptional organizational skills to coordinate and manage multiple activities, sessions, and schedules concurrently.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with diverse groups of people, including participants, team members, and volunteers.
• Ability to assess the needs and capabilities of participants, and match them with suitable animals for therapeutic and recreational activities.
• Understanding of therapeutic approaches and ability to apply these approaches in designing animal-assisted activities that align with participant’s therapeutic goals.
• Ability to monitor and evaluate the progress of participants and adjust activities as needed for maximum benefit.
• Knowledge of animal health and welfare regulations to ensure the animals are well cared for and their needs are met.
• First Aid and CPR certification could be necessary as the coordinator may need to handle emergencies during the activities.

 

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Experience Requirements

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators typically have a background in animal care, therapy, or counseling.

A degree or certification in Animal-Assisted Therapy, Veterinary Care, or a related field is often preferred.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually gained through volunteer work at animal shelters or therapy centers, internships, or part-time roles in animal care facilities.

These professionals may also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Animal Caretaker, Veterinary Technician, or Animal Behaviorist.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often build their skills and knowledge in animal handling, animal behavior, and therapeutic techniques through their roles in animal-assisted therapy settings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience might have some leadership or supervisory experience under their belt, which could prepare them for a role managing an animal-assisted therapy program or coordinating a team of animal-assisted therapists.

In addition to these experience requirements, a genuine passion for animals and an understanding of their therapeutic potential is crucial for success in this role.

Experience with a diverse range of animal species may also be beneficial, as different animals are used in therapy for different reasons.

 

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators typically require a Bachelor’s degree in animal science, psychology, social work, or a related field.

They should have a strong background in animal handling and a deep understanding of animal behavior.

Familiarity with various species, including dogs, horses, and small animals is often required.

Additionally, a thorough knowledge of therapeutic approaches and the ability to work with a diverse range of individuals, including children, elderly, and people with special needs is essential.

Candidates may benefit from a certification in animal-assisted therapy or a related discipline.

Such certifications can be obtained through accredited institutions and typically require coursework and hands-on experience.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in a related field, such as occupational therapy or social work, especially for coordinators planning and supervising therapeutic interventions.

Continuing education and staying updated on the latest research in animal-assisted therapy is often necessary, demonstrating an individual’s commitment to their profession.

It’s also important to note that Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators should possess excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and a genuine love for animals.

 

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Salary Expectations

An Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator earns an average salary of $38,000 (USD) per year.

This wage may fluctuate depending on the coordinator’s level of experience, qualifications, location, and the organization they work for.

 

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator need?

Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills as they will need to liaise between the animals, their handlers, and the people participating in the activities.

A deep understanding and knowledge of animal behavior and care are crucial.

They should also have strong organizational and planning skills to effectively coordinate activities.

 

Do Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinators need a degree?

While there’s no specific degree required to become an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator, a degree in Animal Science, Psychology, or Social Work can be beneficial.

Some roles may require a certification in animal-assisted therapy or previous experience working with animals.

 

What should you look for in an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator resume?

A strong resume for an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator would include experience in coordinating activities, working with a variety of animals, and understanding animal behaviors.

Experience in a therapeutic environment and knowledge of animal-assisted therapy programs would be a plus.

It would also be beneficial if the candidate has completed relevant courses or certifications in animal therapy.

 

What qualities make a good Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator?

A good Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator should have a strong passion for animals and a deep understanding of their behaviors and needs.

They should be patient, empathetic, and able to build strong relationships with both humans and animals.

Additionally, they should possess strong leadership skills to effectively coordinate activities and ensure the safety and welfare of all involved.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator?

Hiring an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator can be challenging as it requires a unique blend of skills including animal care expertise, activity coordination, and people skills.

However, by providing a supportive environment and opportunities for professional development, you can attract passionate and dedicated individuals to this role.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified what it truly means to be an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator.

Surprise?

It’s not just about cuddling cute critters.

It’s about building health and happiness, one human-animal interaction at a time.

With our handy Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to leap into action.

But why pause at that?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards meticulously-crafted listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every animal interaction is a part of a larger healing process.

Let’s create that healing, together.

How to Become an Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator (Complete Guide)

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