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Animal Rescue Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

National Veterinary Associates

Veterinarian

Merced, CA

$120K - $140K/yr

Associate Veterinarian Merced Animal Medical Center Salary: $120,000-$140,000 (DOE) + production & benefits We are a well-established, community-focused veterinary hospital in California's Central ...

NVA

Veterinarian

Merced, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Associate Veterinarian Merced Animal Medical Center Salary: $120,000-$140,000 (DOE) + production & benefits We are a well-established, community-focused veterinary hospital in California's Central ...

NVA

Veterinarian

Merced, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Associate Veterinarian Merced Animal Medical Center Salary: $120,000-$140,000 (DOE) + production & benefits We are a well-established, community-focused veterinary hospital in California's Central ...

Central Valley Vet Clinic

Veterinarian

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

If you are passionate about providing exceptional animal care, we'd like to meet you. Responsibilities * Provide routine examinations * Diagnose illnesses and recommend treatment * Perform surgeries ...

Central Valley Vet Clinic

Veterinarian

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

If you are passionate about providing exceptional animal care, we'd like to meet you. Responsibilities Provide routine examinations Diagnose illnesses and recommend treatment Perform surgeries ...

Central Valley Vet Clinic

Veterinarian

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

If you are passionate about providing exceptional animal care, we'd like to meet you. Responsibilities * Provide routine examinations * Diagnose illnesses and recommend treatment * Perform surgeries ...

Vetco

Vetco Relief Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Merced, CA · On-site

Vetco Relief Veterinarian - Merced, CA Petco Veterinary Services offers relief veterinarians the chance to work in two distinct settings: Vetco Vaccination Clinics and Vetco Total Care full-service ...

Petco

Associate Veterinarian

Turlock, CA · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events. At our Vetco Total Care Full ...

Petco

Veterinary Hospital Receptionist

Turlock, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events. Position Purpose: The purpose ...

Petco

Associate Veterinarian

Turlock, CA · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events. At our Vetco Total Care Full ...

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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

National Veterinary Associates

Merced, CA

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Associate Veterinarian


Merced Animal Medical Center
Salary: $120,000–$140,000 (DOE) + production & benefits


We are a well-established, community-focused veterinary hospital in California’s Central Valley, and we’re excited to grow our doctor team. This is a great opportunity for a veterinarian who wants to practice high-quality medicine, build real confidence, and be supported every step of the way—whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced DVM.


About the Hospital

Merced Animal Medical Center is a well-supported GP clinic with surgery, urgent care, and emergency services, serving a diverse and loyal community. The hospital has undergone recent renovations, including updated exam rooms and new equipment, and continues to evolve with the needs of our patients and team in mind.


We’re open 7 days per week (9am–5pm), with doctors typically working 4-day work weeks, arriving between 7–8am. You’ll almost always be working alongside another experienced DVM, ensuring collaboration and support throughout the day.


Our Doctor Team

You’ll be joining a knowledgeable, down-to-earth group of veterinarians, including:

  • Dr. Kafka (Managing DVM) – a long-tenured leader with a strong background in community practice, surgery, and mentorship
  • Dr. Hannigan – UC Davis graduate with deep ties to the hospital and community
  • Dr. Benson – sees cats, dogs, and exotics
  • Dr. Hayer – a recent graduate with strong local roots and interests in behavior, preventative care, and internal medicine

Culture & Support

  • Well-knit, collaborative team with long-tenured staff (some 10–20+ years)
  • 2:1 tech-to-doctor ratio with experienced RVTs
  • Team engagement meetings
  • A mix of seasoned team members and newer staff bringing fresh energy
  • A culture built around support, learning, and doing right by both clients and teammates
  • This is a hospital where you’ll see a lot and do a lot. New graduates are given longer appointment times (up to 1 hour initially) and mentorship tailored to their comfort level.

The Role

  • Mix of appointments, surgery, urgent care, and emergency cases
  • Soft tissue and orthopedic surgery performed in-house
  • In-house diagnostics and imaging interpretation
  • Occasional weekend shifts as part of a shared schedule

Who We’re Looking For

  • DVM licensed (or eligible) in California
  • Open to new graduates and experienced veterinarians
  • Interest in surgery and urgent care is preferred
  • Team-oriented, adaptable, and eager to grow
  • Someone who’s looking to build a long-term home

Why Animal Clinic of Merced?

  • You’ll gain hands-on experience across a wide variety of cases
  • Strong mentorship and emergency/urgent care support
  • Almost always practicing alongside another DVM
  • A hospital that values learning, teamwork, and realistic medicine
  • A chance to truly make an impact in the community you serve

If you’re looking for a place where you can grow your skills, be supported by experienced teammates, and practice meaningful medicine every day, we’d love to connect. Apply today!

National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.
At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.
At National Veterinary Associates, we want to make sure your experience connecting with us is seamless and straightforward. Here’s what to expect when interacting with us:
 
• We’ll always reach out via verified LinkedIn profiles or emails ending in @nva.com
• We may also contact you via text message from an identified NVA representative for recruiting-related communication
• All job opportunities and applications are hosted on our official careers site: careers.nva.com
• There is no cost or confidential information required to apply or be considered for a position
 
If you have any doubts about a communication, feel free to visit our careers page to verify authenticity or email us at hiringhub@nva.com. Thank you for exploring opportunities at NVA!
NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees.  The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process.  For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
 
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.

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About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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