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Animal Rescue Jobs in Muskegon, MI (NOW HIRING)

Animal Clinic of Muskegon

Veterinarian

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) | Animal Clinic of Muskegon | Muskegon, Michigan Veterinarian Job Opportunity in Muskegon, Michigan Animal Clinic of Muskegon is seeking an Associate Veterinarian (DVM ...

Animal Clinic of Muskegon

Veterinarian

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) | Animal Clinic of Muskegon | Muskegon, Michigan Veterinarian Job Opportunity in Muskegon, Michigan Animal Clinic of Muskegon is seeking an Associate Veterinarian (DVM ...

Animal Clinic of Muskegon

Veterinarian

Muskegon, MI

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) | Animal Clinic of Muskegon | Muskegon, Michigan Veterinarian Job Opportunity in Muskegon, Michigan Animal Clinic of Muskegon is seeking an Associate Veterinarian (DVM ...

Animal Clinic of Muskegon

Veterinarian

Muskegon, MI

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) Animal Clinic of Muskegon Muskegon, Michigan Veterinarian Job Opportunity in Muskegon, Michigan Animal Clinic of Muskegon is seeking an Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to ...

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All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Muskegon, MI

Animal Rescue information

See Muskegon, MI salary details

$8

$19

$25

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Muskegon, MI is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $22.60 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 Muskegon, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Muskegon, MI are:
What cities near Muskegon, MI are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Muskegon, MI with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Muskegon, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,553 per year, or $19 per hour.
Production Animal Veterinarian- West Michigan Veterinary Service

Production Animal Veterinarian- West Michigan Veterinary Service

PetVet Care Centers

Coopersville, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

PetVet Care Centers rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 47 rated veterinary

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.

Job Title: Production Animal Veterinarian
Location: Coopersville, Michigan
Practice: West Michigan Veterinary Service

About Us
West Michigan Veterinary Service is a well-established, progressive mixed-animal practice with a strong emphasis on production animal medicine. We proudly serve the agricultural community in and around Coopersville, MI, providing high-quality veterinary care to Small Animals, Equine, Dairy Cattle, and other livestock operations. Our team is dedicated to supporting producers through modern, efficient, and compassionate veterinary services.

Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated and dedicated Production Animal Veterinarian to join our team. This role focuses on herd health, preventative medicine, diagnostics, and client education, working closely with local producers to optimize animal health and farm productivity.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide medical and surgical care to production animals, primarily dairy cattle, horses, and occasionally small animals
  • Develop and implement herd health and preventative care programs
  • Perform routine and emergency farm calls
  • Conduct diagnostics, pregnancy checks, and reproductive services
  • Maintain accurate medical records and treatment protocols
  • Build strong client relationships and offer consultative support to producers
  • Collaborate with team members to deliver high-quality, efficient care

Qualifications

  • DVM or equivalent degree from an accredited veterinary school
  • Licensed (or eligible for licensure) in the state of Michigan
  • Strong interest in production animal medicine
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Willingness to participate in an on-call rotation

Why Coopersville?
Coopersville offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere with easy access to Grand Rapids and the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. Enjoy a high quality of life with strong community ties and a thriving agricultural region.

How to Apply
Email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com

Join West Michigan Veterinary Service and make a meaningful impact in the agricultural community!

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
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Competitive salary and Production Bonus - no negative accrual option available
  • 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

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

  • 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.

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

PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information.  Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.

What PetVet Care Centers employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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PetVet Care Centers logo

About PetVet Care Centers

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PetVet Care Centers, based in Westport, CT, US, is a leading player in the veterinary services industry. The company operates a network of over 350 general, specialty, and emergency hospitals across the United States, making it a central fixture in the field of animal health care. Established with a mission to provide the best possible care to the patients while supporting the people who provide that care, PetVet Care Centers continues to uphold this mission by providing comprehensive, quality medical services to pets. The company has achieved significant growth since its inception, standing as an industry pioneer by virtue of its commitment to advanced veterinary services and superior patient care.

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Westport, CT, US

Year founded

2012

Social media

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