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Animal Rescue Jobs in Lakeland, FL (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

Shift Lead

Brandon, FL ยท On-site

$12 - $14.75/hr

... rescue agencies. * Protect employees and customers by maintaining a safe and clean store environment. Required to maintain cleanliness and well-being of all livestock including animal care and ...

Shift Lead

Brandon, FL ยท On-site

$12 - $14.75/hr

... rescue agencies. * Protect employees and customers by maintaining a safe and clean store environment. Required to maintain cleanliness and well-being of all livestock including animal care and ...

Event Productions Host (Part-time Seasonal)

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$13.25 - $18/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 ...

... 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 ...

Shift Lead

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

... rescue agencies. * Protect employees and customers by maintaining a safe and clean store environment. Required to maintain cleanliness and well-being of all livestock including animal care and ...

Showing results 41-60

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

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

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 - Winter Haven, FL

Dunham Animal Hospital

Winter Haven, FL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Who we are:ย 

Dunham Animal Hospital in Winter Haven, FL is seeking a compassionate Associate Veterinarian to join our close-knit, experienced team.

Dunham Animal Hospital has been a trusted cornerstone of the Winter Haven community for generations. Many of our clients-and their pets-have grown up with us, and we pride ourselves on delivering consistent, high-quality care in a welcoming environment.

Our hospital features:

  • 3 exam rooms
  • A full surgical and dental/treatment suite
  • Paper-lite workflow
  • Recent upgrades include:
  • New digital X-ray
  • Ultrasound
  • Companion laser & Phovia therapy
  • Endoscope on site
  • CO laser

Enjoy excellent work/life balance: With no after hours or on-call requirements, we intentionally structure our schedule to support both patient care and personal well-being.

Here at Dunham, you'll join a stable, highly experienced team, with all staff members having been here 2+ years.

  • Doctor-to-support staff ratio: 1:2
  • Many technicians are canine/feline CPR certified
  • 2 CVA-accredited team members
  • Several staff members actively pursuing CVT credentials

We proudly welcome new and recent graduates, and are deeply committed to mentorship and training. New doctors receive:

  • Longer appointment times
  • One-on-one surgical support
  • Consistent 1:2 technician assistance
  • Individualized mentorship plans and reasonable accommodations to support learning and confidence building
  • Leadership with an open-door policy for questions and learning opportunities

Our Chief of Staff has recently completed Vetcor's Mentor Certification Program, reinforcing our commitment to developing confident, capable veterinarians.

Winter Haven is ideally located between Tampa and Orlando, offering the best of both worlds-small-town warmth with easy access to big-city amenities. Highlights include:

  • LEGOLAND Florida Resort in town, built on the historic Cypress Gardens site
  • Local nightlife, weekend markets, art shows, and car shows
  • Beaches within 1-2 hours
  • A nearby state park with natural springs
  • A community that feels cozy yet vibrant and active

Benefitsย 

We take employee well-being seriously and offer:ย 

  • Competitive Compensation Packageย 

  • Medical benefits (including health, dental, vision, and maternity leave)ย 

  • 401(k) with matchย 

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)ย 

  • CE allowance + covered professional duesย 

  • PTOย 

  • No on-call shiftsย 

  • And so much more!ย ย 

We can't wait to show you how special our team is! Apply here today!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME