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Animal Rescue Jobs in Dearborn, MI (NOW HIRING)

Small Animal Veterinarian - DVM- Troy, MI A progressive small animal practice is seeking a compassionate and motivated Associate Veterinarian to join a supportive and experienced team. This position ...

Allen Animal Hospital is a well-established small animal practice located in Livonia, Michigan; a suburb of Metro Detroit. Easily accessible off the highway, our location offers the best of both ...

Associate Veterinarian

Livonia, MI ยท On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Allen Animal Hospital is a well-established small animal practice located in Livonia, Michigan; a suburb of Metro Detroit. Easily accessible off the highway, our location offers the best of both ...

Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and saving lives ... rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption services. With a team of dedicated professionals and ...

Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and saving lives ... rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption services. With a team of dedicated professionals and ...

Veterinarian

Westland, MI ยท On-site

$25K/mo

Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and saving lives ... rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption services. With a team of dedicated professionals and ...

Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and saving lives ... rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption services. With a team of dedicated professionals and ...

Michigan Humane is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving and saving lives ... rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption services. With a team of dedicated professionals and ...

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Animal Rescue information

See Dearborn, MI salary details

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How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Dearborn, MI is $19.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $22.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an animal rescue worker?

To become an animal rescue worker, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience with animals, and strong compassion. Volunteering at shelters or rescue organizations can provide valuable skills, and some roles may require certifications in animal care or first aid.

What degree do I need for animal rescue?

Animal rescue jobs typically do not require a specific degree, but a background in animal science, biology, or related fields can be beneficial. Relevant skills include animal handling, first aid, and knowledge of animal behavior, and certifications such as pet first aid or CPR can enhance employability.

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.

Do animal rescues pay employees?

Animal rescue organizations may pay employees, especially those in full-time or specialized roles, but many positions are volunteer-based. Salaries can vary depending on the organization, location, and job responsibilities, with some rescues offering stipends or part-time wages. Certification in animal care or related skills can improve employment prospects and pay rates.

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 is the highest paid job working with animals?

The highest paid jobs working with animals typically include veterinary surgeons and specialized animal researchers, with veterinarians earning a median annual salary of around $100,000 or more. Advanced roles such as zoo directors or animal pharmacologists may also command higher salaries, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications.
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Dearborn, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Dearborn, MI are:
What cities near Dearborn, MI are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Dearborn, MI with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Dearborn, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,224 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Associate Veterinarian - Southgate Animal Hospital

Southgate Animal Hospital

Southgate, MI โ€ข On-site

$160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people - providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage - for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience - every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Associate Veterinarian to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high-quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.
Southgate Animal Hospital in Southgate, MI, has provided loving care to pets with compassionate service to their families from Southgate, Taylor, Wyandotte, Lincoln Park, and beyond for many years. As a full-service hospital, we offer a wide range of comprehensive veterinary services to keep your pets in great health, from wellness exams and vaccinations to dental care, internal medicine, and cold laser therapy. Our team now offers a wide-array of services including routine + dental care, internal medicine, and day-time emergencies in our fully-renovated hospital, equipped with the latest in medical technology. With many years of collective experience, we are happy to provide supportive mentorships to new graduates and experienced doctors alike.
Why Join Us:
  • Provide high-quality medical care to patients in a warm, welcoming, and professional environment
  • Grow your skillset and confidence in a wide array of medical + surgical procedures through supportive mentorship
  • Utilize the latest in medical technology from our newly renovated, state-of-the-art facility
  • Established in the community since 1953

Compensation and Benefits Overview:
  • Salary up to $160,000 depending on skills and experience
  • $100,000 in sign-on and retention bonuses
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Relocation assistance

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Lindsay Aimar at laimar@petvetcarecenters.com.
Key Responsibilities
  • Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
  • Client communication and education
  • Performing diagnostic procedures and surgery
  • Maintaining accurate medical records
  • Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
  • Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
  • Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
  • Evaluate and monitor protocols for the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
  • Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being upheld
  • Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
  • Performs other duties as assigned by Management.

Qualifications (Required)
  • Veterinarian degree (DVM) from an accredited college or university
  • Current State Veterinary License
  • DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
  • 1+ years of experience in a veterinary practice
  • Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
  • Excellent surgical and dental skills.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
  • Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
  • Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
  • Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
  • May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
  • Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
  • Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high-quality veterinary hospital.
  • Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff.
  • Professionalism: Work as part of a high-quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
  • Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
  • Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients.
  • Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others.

What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members - professionally and personally. Benefits include:
  • Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000
  • Competitive salary and production bonus - no negative accrual option available
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team Member Pet Discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support - including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle - a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
  • Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Pay Range
$110,000-$160,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care - for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
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