Animal Shelter Manager

Animal Shelter Managers oversee the administration and management of animal shelters and rescue organizations. They are responsible for the wellbeing of the animals in their care and for ensuring that the shelter operates smoothly. Animal Shelter Managers may also have the ability to develop relationships with the local community to increase shelter involvement or to increase the rate of animal adoptions. Animal Shelter Managers most often work full-time, 40 hours per week in an office and shelter environment. Animal Shelter Manager positions, benefits, and duties may vary depending on the size and focus of the shelter or organization they work for.

Education and Training

Though it is not always required, Animal Shelter Managers may have earned a bachelor's degree in Animal Science or a related field. Many Animal Shelter Managers enter the field through work as a volunteer.

Skills and Abilities

Animal Shelter Managers have a deep love of animals and a passion for ensuring the animals' well-being. They are also:

• Organized
• Compassionate
• Have strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Have leadership and management experience
• Knowledgeable about animal behavior and care
• Capable of managing a budget
• Proficient in the use of computers and software

Responsibilities

Animal Shelter Managers are responsible for:

• Overseeing the daily operations of their organization's animal shelter
• Ensuring that the animals are healthy and have appropriate food, water, shelter, spaces to roam, and veterinary care
• Hiring, training, and supervising staff
• Developing and implementing policies and procedures
• Marketing and fundraising
• Working with other animal welfare organizations and the community

Career Growth

Animal Shelter Managers may advance to positions such as executive director or regional director for a large animal welfare organization or open their own animal shelter.

Challenges

Animal Shelter Managers may face challenges such as:

• Difficult economic conditions
• Animal cruelty
• Lack of funding
• High turnover among staff
• Public misunderstanding about the role of animal shelters

Projects

Some of the projects that Animal Shelter Managers may take on include:

• Developing and implementing new programs and services
• Expanding the shelter's reach into the community
• Fundraising for a new shelter or renovation
• Partnering with other organizations to provide support and resources

Opportunities for Personal Growth and Development are available to Animal Shelter Managers. As leaders in the field of animal welfare, they have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of animals and people and to grow as individuals.

Personality Traits

Animal Shelter Managers tend to be:

• Compassionate
• Assertive yet approachable
• Organized
• Detail-oriented
• Team-oriented

Preparing for a Career as an Animal Shelter Manager

There are many things that students and learners can do to prepare for a career as an Animal Shelter Manager. These are some of the ways you can use online courses to develop skills that will make you a stronger candidate for positions in this field:

• Take courses in animal welfare, animal behavior, and animal care.
• Volunteer at your local animal shelter or rescue organization.
• Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Learn how to manage a budget and use computers and software.

Online courses can be a great way to learn about the animal welfare field and gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this career path.

While online courses can provide a strong foundation, it is important to note that they may not be enough to fully prepare you for a career in Animal Shelter Management. Most employers will seek out candidates with a robust volunteer or paid work history in the animal management field, in addition to other qualifications which may include experience in business management, customer service, or other relevant fields.