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Animal Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Rimforest Animal Hospital

Extern/Volunteer

Rimforest, CA · On-site

... animal care. Opportunity Details * Externship or Volunteer Placement * Schedule varies based on availability and hospital needs * Unpaid position Learning & Support Opportunities * Observe and assist ...

Animal Dermatology Clinic

Veterinary Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Animal Dermatology Group (ADG) is the largest veterinary dermatology ... Animal Dermatology Clinic - Tustin is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant. We are looking ...

Animal Dermatology Group

Veterinary Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Animal Dermatology Group (ADG) is the largest veterinary dermatology business in the U.S ... Animal Dermatology Clinic - Tustin is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant. We are looking ...

Animal Dermatology Group

Veterinary Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

At Animal Dermatology Clinic - Ontario , we believe that great patient care starts with a happy team! We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. The Role: In this position ...

Animal Dermatology Clinic

Veterinary Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

At Animal Dermatology Clinic - Ontario , we believe that great patient care starts with a happy team! We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. The Role: In this position ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$19 - $29/hr

Come join VCA Yorba Regional Animal Hospital! We are looking for a Veterinary Assistant join our team! Location: 8290 E Crystal Dr, Anaheim, CA 92807 Salary: $19 $29 per hour Schedule: 4x10-hour ...

Veritas Veterinary Partners

Kennel Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ANIMAL CARE AND HUSBANDRY * Feed, water and exercise ... PATIENT SUPPORT AND TEAM COLLABORATION * Assist veterinarians and credentialed veterinary ...

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All JobsAnimal JobsAnimal Assistant JobsAnimal Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Animal Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$7

$14

$28

How much do animal assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal assistant in Riverside, CA is $14.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.67 and $15.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do animal assistants do?

Animal assistants support veterinarians, pet owners, or animal care facilities by feeding, cleaning, and providing basic care for animals. They may also help with grooming, monitoring animal health, and handling animals safely, often working in kennels, shelters, or clinics. Basic knowledge of animal behavior and safety procedures is important for this role.

What is the difference between Animal Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal AssistantVeterinary Technician
CredentialsNone required or basic certificationsLicensed or certified, often requiring an associate degree
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet clinics, grooming facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research labs
Job DutiesAssist with animal care, cleaning, feeding, basic handlingPerform medical tests, assist in surgeries, administer medications
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal shelters, pet stores, grooming salonsVeterinary practices, animal hospitals, research institutions

Animal Assistants typically focus on basic animal care and support roles, often with minimal formal credentials. Veterinary Technicians have more advanced responsibilities, including medical procedures, requiring certifications or licenses. Both roles work closely with animals but differ significantly in training, duties, and work settings.

What is an animal assistant?

Animal Assistants are professionals who help care for animals in a variety of settings, such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet boarding facilities, and research labs. Their duties typically include feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring animals, as well as cleaning enclosures and assisting veterinarians or other animal care specialists. They play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of animals, and may also interact with pet owners and assist with administrative tasks. To become an Animal Assistant, a love for animals, attention to detail, and good communication skills are essential.

What do you need to be an animal assistant?

To become an animal assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of animal care, and strong communication skills. Experience with animals, relevant certifications such as pet first aid, and the ability to work in a team are also beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Assistant, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and health, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Familiarity with animal restraint techniques, cleaning protocols, and sometimes specialized software for record-keeping is typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you provide quality care and work effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills ensure the safety, health, and well-being of animals while maintaining efficient operations in veterinary or animal care settings.

What are some common challenges animal assistants face in their daily work, and how can they prepare for them?

Animal Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing the stress and unpredictability of working with a variety of animals, handling physically demanding tasks, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. They may also need to communicate effectively with veterinarians, pet owners, or other staff members, which requires patience and strong interpersonal skills. To prepare, candidates should develop resilience, maintain physical fitness, and seek training in animal behavior and handling techniques, as well as familiarize themselves with the specific procedures of their workplace.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Animal jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Animal Assistant jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Animal Assistant job openings:

Animal Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,820 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Extern/Volunteer

Rimforest Animal Hospital

Rimforest, CA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

EXTERN / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
Rimforest Animal Hospital
Rimforest Animal Hospital welcomes motivated and compassionate individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in a small animal veterinary practice. This opportunity is ideal for students or community members seeking exposure to veterinary medicine and animal care.
Opportunity Details
  • Externship or Volunteer Placement
  • Schedule varies based on availability and hospital needs
  • Unpaid position

Learning & Support Opportunities
  • Observe and assist with daily hospital operations
  • Exposure to patient care, treatments, and handling
  • Learn proper cleaning, sanitation, and safety protocols
  • Work alongside veterinarians and veterinary staff in a professional clinical setting

Responsibilities May Include
  • Assisting with animal care and handling under supervision
  • Cleaning and organizing hospital areas
  • Restocking supplies and supporting staff as needed
  • Observing appointments, procedures, and treatments

Requirements
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Interest in veterinary medicine or animal care
  • Reliable, professional, and eager to learn
  • Ability to follow instructions and safety guidelines
  • Comfortable working around animals of various sizes and temperaments

About Us
Rimforest Animal Hospital is committed to compassionate care, medical excellence, and serving our mountain community with integrity and professionalism.

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