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Animal Care Internship Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Animalcare

REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Norco, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $33/hr

POSITION SUMMARY At Animal Care Services, we believe exceptional patient care begins with an ... interns and inexperienced nursing staff. · Participate in regularly scheduled team meetings. · ...

CALIFORNIA ANIMAL EMERGENCY GROUP

Veterinarian

Corona, CA · On-site

$200K - $350K/yr

At least 1 year of small-animal ER/urgent care experience or completion of a rotating internship. * Surgical competency with common ER procedures or willingness to upskill with mentorship within 90 ...

BluePearl

Emergency Veterinarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$200K - $245K/yr

Provide emergency healthcare treatment to animals. Diagnose and treat animals with illnesses and ... Operate medical equipment used in animal treatment, such as CT-scan and urinalysis. Write ...

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How much do animal care internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care internship in Riverside, CA is $20.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal care internship?

An Animal Care Internship is a hands-on training program designed for students or individuals interested in working with animals. Interns assist with day-to-day animal care tasks such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring health, and sometimes helping with enrichment activities. These internships are typically offered by zoos, animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and veterinary clinics. They provide valuable experience for those pursuing careers in animal science, veterinary medicine, or wildlife conservation. Interns gain practical skills, industry knowledge, and professional connections that can help with future job opportunities.

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

To thrive as an Animal Care Intern, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, health, and handling techniques, often supported by coursework in animal science or biology. Familiarity with animal care protocols, cleaning procedures, and record-keeping systems is typically expected. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and a compassionate, team-oriented attitude help interns excel in this role. These skills ensure the well-being of animals and contribute to efficient, safe, and supportive care environments.

What are some common challenges interns face during an animal care internship, and how can they be addressed?

Animal Care Interns often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, managing emotional responses to animal health issues, and learning to work efficiently within a team of professionals. It's important to be prepared for early mornings, repetitive duties like cleaning enclosures, and following strict safety protocols. Building resilience, asking questions, and seeking feedback from experienced staff can help interns overcome these challenges while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Animal Care Internship jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Animal Care Internship jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Care Internship jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Care Internship jobs in Riverside, CA are:

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

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

Animal Care Internship jobs near you

REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Animal Care Services

Norco, CA • On-site

$18.75 - $33/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

SALARY $18.75 - $33.00
Compensation is commensurate with experience, Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; continuing education allowance; paid CE days; professional dues and licensing support; liability coverage; retirement plan participation; employee pet care discounts.
SCHEDULE: Part-time - May include weekdays, evenings, weekends, holidays, or on-call shifts depending on business needs.
 
POSITION SUMMARY
At Animal Care Services, we believe exceptional patient care begins with an exceptional team.  The veterinary technician (RVT) is an essential part of the healthcare team providing compassionate, skilled and personalized care to our patients and families.  The RVT supports veterinarians in delivering exceptional medical care while creating a positive, supportive experience for every client who walks through the door.  The ideal candidate is dependable, compassionate, detail-oriented and passionate about veterinary medicine.  They will work collaboratively with our team to ensure excellent patient care, client communication and a welcoming hospital environment.  The RVT/VA reports to the Nursing Team Lead and is responsible for performing all nursing duties within their scope of practice. This role requires independent judgment in handling routine assignments, while referring unfamiliar issues or situations outside established instructions to the Nursing Team Lead or Supervisor for guidance. The RVT also supports client and patient care and helps ensure the veterinary department operates smoothly.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
·         Provide compassionate nursing care to patients throughout their visit
·         Assist veterinarians with examinations, treatments, procedures and patient care plans
·         Obtain patient histories, record vital signs and accurately document medical information
·         Administer medications, vaccines, fluids and therapies as directed by the veterinarian
·         Perform laboratory procedures including bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal testing, cytology preparation and other diagnostics
·         Assist with surgery preparation, anesthesia monitoring, patient recovery and post-operative care
·         Perform dental cleaning and assist with dental radiographs as trained
·         Provide clear and compassionate client education regarding medications, nutrition, preventative care and home care instructions
·         Maintain cleanliness, organization and readiness of treatment areas, surgical areas and equipment
·         Monitor hospitalized patients and communicate changes in condition promptly
·         Maintain accurate medical records and follow hospital protocols and safety standards
·         Become familiar with and follow established policies and procedures.
·         Maintain and promote client, employee, and community relations.
·         Support inventory management, equipment maintenance and efficient daily clinic operations
·         Maintain confidentiality with sensitive information and correspondence.
·         Assist in the mentoring and training of interns and inexperienced nursing staff.
·         Participate in regularly scheduled team meetings.
·         Promote a collaborative and supportive work environment.
QUALIFICATIONS
·         3+ years previous experience in a veterinary hospital setting
·         Strong knowledge of veterinary terminology, anatomy, animal behavior, patient care and handling
·         Excellent communication skills and a commitment to exceptional client service
·         Competent in handling and restraint of dog breeds of all sizes and cats
·         Ability to work independently while contributing positively within a team environment
·         Ability to demonstrate compassion, professionalism, reliability and a willingness to continue learning
·         Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities in a busy hospital
PREFERRED
·         Veterinary Technician education and licensed to work in CA 
·         Fear Free Certification
·         Experience with anesthesia monitoring, catheter placement, venipuncture, dentistry, radiology and laboratory diagnostics
·         Experience with practice management systems
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
·         Must be able to stand, walk, bend, reach, and work on feet for extended periods.
·         Must be able to safely handle animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
·         May be exposed to animal dander, odors, noise, bites, scratches, infectious disease, cleaning agents, medications, and radiology or laboratory equipment.
·         Must follow all safety, sanitation, controlled substance, and personal protective equipment protocols.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
We are an equal opportunity employer and value a respectful, inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, business needs, and the ability to perform the essential functions of the role.