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Animal Rescue Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Animal Rescue information

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How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Virginia is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animal rescue?

Animal rescue refers to the process of saving animals from dangerous, abusive, or neglectful situations and providing them with shelter, medical care, and rehabilitation. Animal rescue organizations work to protect stray, abandoned, or mistreated animals, often finding them foster or permanent homes. The main goal is to ensure the well-being and safety of animals, promoting responsible pet ownership and preventing cruelty. Rescued animals may include pets like dogs and cats, as well as wildlife in distress. Volunteers and professionals collaborate to give these animals a second chance at life.

What are some common challenges faced by animal rescue professionals, and how can they effectively address them?

Animal rescue professionals often encounter emotionally challenging situations, such as witnessing animal neglect or working with traumatized animals. They may also face physical demands, unpredictable schedules, and the need to make quick decisions in high-stress environments. Building emotional resilience, practicing self-care, and collaborating closely with veterinary staff, volunteers, and local authorities can help manage these challenges. Additionally, ongoing training and open communication within the team are essential for maintaining a supportive work environment and ensuring the best outcomes for rescued animals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Rescue Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Rescue Worker, you need knowledge of animal handling, first aid, and welfare, often supported by relevant certifications or experience with animals. Familiarity with animal control software, rescue equipment, and sometimes animal transport vehicles is typically required. Compassion, resilience, and strong communication skills are vital for building trust with animals and collaborating with the public and rescue organizations. These skills ensure the safety, effective care, and successful rehoming of animals in challenging and often urgent situations.

What is the difference between Animal Rescue vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectAnimal RescueAnimal Shelter Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications in animal handling or rescue techniquesHigh school diploma; training in animal care and shelter operations
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, outdoor rescues, emergency situationsIndoor shelter facilities, animal care areas
Employer & Industry UsageRescue organizations, non-profits, government agenciesShelters, humane societies, animal control agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Animal Rescue involves actively seeking out and rescuing animals in distress, often in outdoor or emergency settings. Animal Shelter Workers primarily care for animals within shelter facilities, focusing on daily care and adoption processes. Both roles require animal handling skills and work within animal welfare organizations, but their work environments and specific duties differ significantly.

What job is it called when you rescue animals?

The job of rescuing animals is typically called an animal rescue worker or animal rescue technician. These professionals often work for shelters, rescue organizations, or wildlife agencies, and they may need training in animal handling, first aid, and sometimes certifications in animal care or veterinary assistance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia? For Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,407 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Brandermill Animal Hospital - Veterinarian

Brandermill Animal Hospital

Midlothian, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Brandermill Animal Hospital in Midlothian, Virginia (a Richmond suburb) is a hard working, fun-loving companion animal practice boasting a positive team culture and low turnover. We offer high-quality integrative and preventative care and are AAHA accredited. We are a "high-touch" practice and feel that truly getting to know our clients and patients is an integral part of providing the best veterinary care possible. At Brandermill we proudly offer mentorship from multiple experienced veterinarians and the opportunity to join a team with strong clinical skills in the areas of wellness and dentistry.
Brandermill Animal Hospital - Associate Veterinarian - Midlothian, VA
Brandermill Animal Hospital, an AAHA-accredited small animal and exotics hospital in Midlothian, Virginia, is seeking a passionate Associate Veterinarian to join our established team. For over 25 years, we have served the pets of Midlo, Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and the Southside area-treating not only dogs and cats, but also "furry, feathered, and scaly" patients.
This full-time role allows you to practice high-quality medicine in a supportive, collaborative environment. Our focus is on treating every patient with compassion and respect, in a relaxed but progressive setting. Whether you're early in your career or bringing years of experience, this is an opportunity to grow your skills in both conventional and exotic medicine.
Why Join Brandermill Animal Hospital?
  • Diverse caseload including exotics - We have veterinarians on staff who see exotic patients, allowing you to broaden your experience with birds, reptiles, small mammals, and more.
  • AAHA-accredited practice - We uphold high standards of care, safety, and continual improvement.
  • Modern diagnostic & surgical capabilities - On-site services include digital radiography, in-house labs, soft tissue surgery (including CO₂ laser), dental care, and advanced monitoring during anesthesia.
  • Fear Free and low-stress philosophy - Our team is trained to reduce patient stress and prioritize positive experience for pets and clients.
  • Exceptional team culture - Brandermill is known for low turnover and a tight-knit, loyal staff. Community deeply rooted - Over 25 years of service to local pet owners, building trust and long-term relationships.
  • Great location & accessibility - Based in Midlothian with easy access to Richmond and surrounding counties.
Responsibilities & Scope
  • Deliver comprehensive wellness, diagnostic, surgical, and emergency (referral) care
  • Manage cases across a variety of species (canine, feline, exotic)
  • Develop customized treatment plans in partnership with clients
  • Perform surgical procedures including soft tissue and dental surgery
  • Utilize imaging and in-house lab diagnostics to guide care
  • Participate in hospital decision-making, quality assurance, and continuing improvement
  • Mentor and collaborate with support staff (technicians, assistants)
  • Contribute to the hospital's Fear Free and low-stress protocols
Qualifications & Attributes
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or equivalent)
  • Licensed or eligible for license in Virginia
  • Interest or experience in exotic/avian/reptile medicine is a strong plus
  • Compassionate, client-focused communicator
  • Ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment
  • Commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth

About VetEvolve:
Brandermill Animal Hospital is proud to be part of VetEvolve, a network built on a people-first culture. Our mission is to help every team member be "Happy Here." We live by our core values: Serve, Evolve, Trust. Whether you're starting your career or looking to elevate it, VetEvolve supports you with mentorship, leadership development, and wellness resources for long-term success.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)
  • Performance-based bonuses no negative accrual
  • health, vision, and dental benefits
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid Time Off
  • 100% coverage of liability insurance, professional dues, and licensing fees
  • Continuing education stipend and CE PTO
  • Wellness support, mental health resources, and leadership development

If you're seeking a veterinary role where you can practice across species, deepen your surgical skills, and be part of a stable, caring team-let's talk.
Contact Meaghan Mostriansky at mostriansky@vetevolve.com for a confidential conversation.

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