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Animal Rescue Jobs in Lakeland, FL (NOW HIRING)

Pet Supermarket, Inc.

Shift Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You must be an animal lover and it is time to pounce on the opportunity to become part of our ... Support the execution of community events and partnering with various rescue agencies. * Complete ...

Alliance Animal Health

DVM Student Externship

Riverview, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

DVM Student Externship Big Bend Animal Hospital is a well-established, progressive, state of the art, fast paced, one doctor, small animal practice located in Riverview, FL. We offer many services to ...

ZooTampa

Guest Engagement Guide I (Part-Time)

Tampa, FL · On-site

  • Retirement

... animal encounters and engaging seasonal events for which it has won awards as one of the country's most family-friendly zoos. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create ...

ZooTampa

Design & Engineering Internship

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

... animal encounters and engaging seasonal events for which it has won awards as one of the country's most family-friendly zoos. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Lakeland, FL

Animal Rescue information

See Lakeland, FL salary details

$9

$19

$25

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Lakeland, FL is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an animal rescuer?

To become an animal rescuer, you typically need to gain experience with animals through volunteering or working at shelters, and develop skills in handling and caring for animals. Some positions may require certifications in animal first aid or rescue techniques, and a compassionate attitude is essential for success in this field.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL?

The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL?

For Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL are:

What cities near Lakeland, FL are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities near Lakeland, FL with the most Animal Rescue job openings:

Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Lakeland, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,815 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Veterinarian | Alafia River Animal Hospital| Lithia, FL

CareVet Health

Lithia, FL • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Overview
Discover an exciting opportunity to grow your veterinary career while enjoying an outstanding work/life balance in the beautiful Tampa area! Alafia River Animal Hospital, a CareVet partner, has an exciting opportunity for a part-time Associate Veterinarian.
Your Role as an Associate Veterinarian:
We are seeking a confident veterinarian with solid surgical experience who is comfortable performing routine procedures independently. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative, supportive environment and is dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care.
In this role, you will work closely with a skilled and compassionate support team to provide high-quality medical and surgical care. This position requires a consistent part-time schedule, with availability on Thursdays and Fridays at Alafia.
For candidates interested in a full-time opportunity, there is flexibility to expand your schedule by working at nearby CareVet hospitals within a 30-60 minute radius, while remaining part of our broader team
About the hospital:
Located just outside of Tampa, Alafia River Animal Hospital is a purpose-built, modern facility designed to support excellence in veterinary care. The clinic itself sits on a beautiful 4.5-acre lot with donkeys and show cattle boarding on-site, creating a truly unique and welcoming atmosphere for both staff and clients.
Life in Lithia, FL:
Lithia, FL is a peaceful, family-friendly community located just 20-30 minutes from downtown Tampa, offering a perfect balance of rural charm and city convenience. The area is known for its scenic landscapes, top-rated schools, and abundant outdoor recreation, including nearby Alafia River State Park.
CareVet Offers You:
  • Competitive compensation and generous signing bonus
  • Financial planning including 401k with match and student loan support
  • Mentorship-driven experience with strong focus on skill development and CE opportunities, including coverage for dues and licensing
  • Employee Assistance Program with a focus on compassion fatigue and stress support, including access to CareVet's on-staff licensed social worker
  • Health Stipend
Responsibilities
  • Examine animals to assess their health and diagnose problems
  • Treat and dress wounds
  • Perform surgery on animals
  • Test for and vaccinate against diseases
  • Operate medical equipment, such as x-ray machines
  • Advise animal owners about general care, medical conditions, and treatments
  • Prescribe medication
  • Work closely in collaboration with team members to provide high quality care
Qualifications
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) or equivalent degree required
  • Licensure in the state/s candidate will be working
  • Ability to show compassion to both pets and their owners
  • Outstanding dexterity in handling animals while performing precise tasks
  • Ability to react quickly and make decisions under pressure about the wellbeing of an animal
  • Strong fondness and understanding of animals
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
  • Knowledge of animal behavior
  • Ability to use medical technologies during diagnosis, research and surgery of animals

How to Apply
To learn more about positions available, please contact Olivia Dimicelli at 636-856-3100 or by email at odimicelli@carevethealth.com. Apply directly by clicking the button below.
About the Network
CareVet is a network of veterinary hospitals that focuses on managing best-in-class hospitals with a mission to provide the very best care for our pets and our Team Members. Our approach to veterinary medicine focuses on practice legacy, team, Veterinarians, patients and community.
Watch this video to learn more!

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