The 10 Best Animal Handling Gloves

The Avitz Leather (about $15) can help you feel better protected when working with species that you don't expect to attack much higher than your wrist. While they are not ideal for hard-biting animals, they can keep your skin safe from scratches.

While they may not be marketed as such, the Exemplary Gardens Thorn Proof (about $26) are good for working with cats and reptiles, where there is more of a worry of claws than biting. They reach all the way to the elbow and only minimally affect dexterity.

The Armor Full-Finger (appx. $150) are made of a combination of DuPont Kevlar and Cordura, a blend that makes them extremely rugged, yet stretchy and flexible at the same time. They were developed by a veterinarian who knows a thing or two about getting bitten.

The Hestia NWT (about $14) are crafted from extremely thick cow leather that provides superior puncture resistance against sharp talons and teeth, and which may even help minimize bruising. They are also reinforced with Kevlar thread for maximum strength.

The Dan Wild (around $35) provide almost full arm coverage, so if you work with larger animals that have a long reach, these are a smart choice. They aren't as thick as some other options, though, so are better for protecting against scratches than bites.

Whether trimming spiky plants, holding down unruly pets at a veterinarian's office, or cleaning a snake's cage, the Defences Gauntlet (about $26) have you covered — literally and figuratively. The sturdy cowhide leather should stop most teeth dead in their tracks.

The Kim Yuan Extreme (about $22) are available in three different lengths, so there is one to fit every need. The insides of the hands are lined with sweat-absorbent cotton for comfort, while the cuffs have a denim lining for added toughness.

If you need maximum coverage, the WingOfFly Thickened (appx. $26) are for you. Measuring 23.6 inches, they reach well past the elbows, providing protection for almost your entire arm. Despite being extremely rugged, they have a very soft cotton lining.

With a tough Kevlar lining, the Rapicca Bite Proof (around $20) allow you to safely work with a variety of different species, from reptiles to mammals to birds. They are also ideal for use when barbecuing because they can withstand temperatures of up to 662 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Olive & Suds (around $30) are ideal for pet groomers, since they're designed specifically for use while bathing animals. They are naturally bacteria and mold resistant, so there is little chance of them developing a funky smell, as long as you hang them to dry after each use.