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Animal Rescue Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

VetCor

Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Merced, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost spay/neuter services through a local non-profit program. We are seeking a Full-Time or Part-Time ...

Vetcor

Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Merced, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost spay/neuter services through a local non-profit program. We are seeking a Full-Time or Part-Time ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Associate Veterinarian

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$66K - $180K/yr

Join us as an Associate Veterinarian at VCA Los Banos Animal Hospital. You'll quickly discover that you're well supported by world-class medicine, technology, facilities, and a talented team. You'll ...

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All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Merced, CA

Animal Rescue information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$22

$29

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Merced, CA is $22.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $26.39 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 popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Merced, CA? For Animal Rescue jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Merced, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Merced, CA are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,236 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Valley Animal Hospital of Merced

Merced, CA • On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Who we are:
Full-Time/Part-Time Veterinarian - Valley Animal Hospital, Merced, CA
Since 1985, Valley Animal Hospital (VAH) has proudly served dogs, cats, exotics, and pocket pets in Merced, CA, delivering top-notch veterinary care. We've been named "Favorite Veterinary Clinic" in the Merced Sun-Star Reader's Choice Awards three years in a row!
Our welcoming hospital features superb veterinarians, 3 licensed veterinary technicians, and a dedicated support staff committed to patients, clients, and community. VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost spay/neuter services through a local non-profit program.
We are seeking a Full-Time or Part-Time Veterinarian to join our community-focused practice.
Where We Are
Merced is a growing, affordable community with a bright future. With UC Merced nearby, there are exciting opportunities to grow your clientele if you enjoy building strong client relationships. Residents and visitors enjoy lakes, reservoirs, wildlife wetlands, and the historic Castle Air Museum. For outdoor lovers, Yosemite National Park is just a couple of hours away.
This is a great opportunity for a veterinarian who wants to stay and grow in a small, close-knit community.
Our Facility
  • Comfortable, stand-alone hospital - designed for a smooth, efficient workflow.
  • Exam rooms: 6 (one small, closet-sized).
  • Surgical suite: 3 tables, ideal for up to 2 veterinarians at a time.
  • Treatment area: includes dental table.
  • Boarding: small on-site facility.

What We Offer
  • Work/life balance - no after-hour requirements.
  • Flexible Schedule Options:
    • Four 10-hour workdays.
    • Part-time or relief work welcome.
    • No on-call, flexible shifts.
  • State-of-the-art equipment:
    • Digital radiography (standard & dental).
    • Ultrasound.
    • Bovie electrocautery unit.
  • Advanced procedures: soft tissue, orthopedic, dental surgeries, chemotherapy.
  • In-house lab testing: IDEXX CBC/Chem.
  • Client engagement: Rover Rewards Loyalty Program.

Mentorship & Support
We value growth and hands-on learning! While our clinic pace is busy, we provide a gradual onboarding process for new graduates to ease into managing a full caseload. You'll have the opportunity to learn by doing, steadily building your confidence and skills while integrating into our workflow.
Success in this role is enhanced by excellent communication skills, as building strong relationships with clients and our team is essential for providing top-notch care.
We also support Large Animal Veterinarians transitioning to small animal medicine and provide resources for new graduates to connect, collaborate, and thrive:
  • Structured orientation with 1-on-1 surgical guidance.
  • Zoom calls and roundtables with other recent graduates.
  • Peer advisors for networking and career guidance.
  • Dedicated Slack group for case reviews and collaboration.

Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $170,000 - $200,000 annually (DOE).
  • Generous sign-on bonus.
  • Relocation assistance.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • CE allowance + paid CE days.
  • Paid parental leave (birth/adoption).
  • Licensing, dues, and liability coverage.
  • FSA, EAP, staff discounts, and referral bonuses.
  • Exclusive Perks Through Resources for Living - savings on electronics, travel, entertainment, fitness, and more.

We have a positive, well-being-focused culture and a supportive, collaborative team. Join us and grow your career while making a real impact in our community!
Apply Today: Send your resume to Jose Izarpate at Jizarpate@vetcor.com
What's in it for you:

Apply