Wondering how old you need to be to work at Petco? Let me break it down for you with everything you need to know about age requirements, what positions you can apply for, and how to get your foot in the door at this popular pet retailer.
Most Petco positions require applicants to be at least 18 years old. That said, some entry-level roles might accept younger workers aged 16-17, depending on your state’s labor laws and the specific store’s policies.
Petco Age Requirements: What You Need to Know
The age requirements at Petco aren’t random – they’re based on a mix of legal regulations, job responsibilities, and safety concerns. While most positions require you to be a legal adult, there are some exceptions worth knowing about.
If you’re dreaming of working with animals but haven’t hit 18 yet, don’t worry! You might still have options. Let’s dive into the details.
Why 18 Is Usually the Magic Number
There are several good reasons why Petco typically requires employees to be 18+:
Legal requirements: Federal and state labor laws restrict what minors can do in the workplace, especially around animals and certain equipment.
Liability concerns: Working with animals comes with risks. From a frightened hamster to a nervous Great Dane getting groomed, handling animals requires maturity and responsibility.
Schedule flexibility: Adult employees can legally work any shift without hour restrictions that apply to minors.
Equipment usage: Many positions require operating potentially dangerous equipment like grooming tools, heavy lifting machinery, or medical devices.
Jobs involving direct animal care – like pet groomers, aquatic specialists, or companion animal leaders – almost always require you to be 18 due to these factors.
Positions That Might Accept 16-17 Year Olds
Not yet 18? You might still have options at Petco. These entry-level positions sometimes accept younger applicants:
- Sales associate: Helping customers find products and providing basic information
- Cashier: Operating registers and assisting with checkout
- Stocker: Receiving shipments and keeping shelves organized
These roles focus more on customer service and merchandise handling rather than direct animal care, making them more accessible to younger workers.
One former Petco employee shared: “I started as a cashier at 17. I couldn’t handle the animals or work in certain departments, but it was a great first job experience and helped me get promoted once I turned 18.”
How to Find Out Exact Age Requirements for Your Location
Age requirements can vary based on your location and specific job openings. Here’s how to get accurate information:
Check Petco’s careers website: Browse current openings in your area and review the listed requirements.
Contact your local store directly: The store manager can provide the most accurate information about their specific hiring policies.
Ask about exceptions: Some stores may have flexibility for exceptional candidates, especially if you have relevant experience or certifications.
Look at state laws: Your state’s labor laws might affect what positions are available to minors.
What Else Petco Looks For (Besides Age)
Age isn’t the only factor in getting hired at Petco. The company also values:
Genuine love for animals: This is a must! They want people who are passionate about pet care.
Customer service skills: Being friendly and helpful to pet parents is crucial.
Flexibility: Most retail positions require availability on evenings, weekends, and some holidays.
Physical capabilities: Many roles require standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 pounds.
Team player attitude: Working well with others is essential in the fast-paced pet retail environment.
Quick Reference: Petco Age Requirements by Position
| Position Type | Typical Minimum Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Animal Care (grooming, aquatics, etc.) | 18+ | Legally required for safety reasons |
| Management Roles | 18+ | Responsibility level requires adult status |
| Cashier/Sales Associate | 16-18 | Varies by location and state laws |
| Stocker/Merchandise | 16-18 | May have lifting requirements |
Tips for Getting Hired at Petco (At Any Age)
If Petco is your dream workplace, here are some tips to improve your chances:
Start as a customer: Get to know your local store, the products, and show genuine interest.
Volunteer with animals: Build relevant experience through animal shelters or rescue organizations.
Take related courses: Pet first aid, animal behavior, or retail training can make your application stand out.
Be persistent: If you’re not hired right away, keep checking back. Retail turnover means new opportunities open regularly.
Start elsewhere if needed: If age is a barrier, consider starting at another retailer to build experience until you’re old enough for your preferred Petco position.
Working at Petco can be an amazing experience for animal lovers. Whether you’re eligible now or need to wait until you’re 18, understanding the requirements is the first step toward landing that pet-friendly dream job.
Remember that even if you start in an entry-level position, Petco often promotes from within, so today’s cashier job could lead to tomorrow’s pet care specialist role!
