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Animal Rescue Jobs in Muskegon, MI (NOW HIRING)

Vetco Veterinarian Assistant

Norton Shores, MI

$14.25 - $17.75/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. As a Vetco Veterinary ...

Vetco Veterinarian Assistant

Norton Shores, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/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. As a Vetco Veterinary ...

In 1984, we opened the doors of our first animal hospital - and today, our family has grown to include over 20 locations across Arizona, Chicago and Michigan. Together, our network offers outstanding ...

Animal care education from reputable academy or grooming program * Experience with using Microsoft Office programs, calculators, copiers, and fax machines * Experience working with retail POS systems ...

Animal care education from reputable academy or grooming program * Experience with using Microsoft Office programs, calculators, copiers, and fax machines * Experience working with retail POS systems ...

Responsibilities and Duties: • Perform, track and log all medical care • Assist veterinarian with diagnostic and surgical procedures • Maintain animal records Desired Skills and Experience • ...

From $15.00 per hour Glenpark Animal Hospital is currently looking for an amazing new full-time person to join our team! We strive to provide customer service we are proud of and treat our clients ...

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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:
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.
Vetco Veterinarian Assistant

Vetco Veterinarian Assistant

Petco

Norton Shores, MI

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Petco rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 626 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 714 rated retailers


Job description

Want to help pets live their best lives?

We're proud to be where the pets go and where thepet peoplego. If you want to make a real difference, create an exciting career path, feel welcome to be your whole self and nurture your wellbeing,Petco is the place for you.

Our core values capture that spirit as we work to improve lives by doing what's right for pets and people.

  • Pet First - Protect & Empower.All pets shouldLive their Best Life.We put the needs of pets and pet parents at the center of everything we do.

  • Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond.OurPassionfor pets brings us together! We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through district experiences, products, and services.

  • Let's Go! Own & Commit.We are stronger asOne Petco team.We bring our unique superpowers and champion authenticity in everyone to drive success.

About Petco:

We're proud to be"where the pets go"to find everything they need to live their best lives for more than 60 years - from their favorite meals and toys, to trusted supplies and expert support from people who get it, because we live it. We believe in the universal truths of pet parenthood - the boundless boops, missing slippers, late night zoomies and everything in between. And we're here for it. Every tail wag, every vet visit, every step of the way. We are29,000+strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than1,500Petco stores across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico,250+Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics and eight distribution centers. In 1999, we foundedPetco Love. Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately7 million animalsthrough in-store adoption events.

As a Vetco Veterinary Assistant, you will meet your veterinary team at our local dispatch office, then travel to your assigned Petco clinic locations for the day. At the clinics, your team of veterinary assistants will greet the pet parents and recommend the veterinary services that will best protect their pets. The Veterinary Assistant will assist the Veterinarian so the services can be administered and thank the pet parent for protecting their pet!
Essential Job Functions:
The incumbent must be able to perform all of the following duties and responsibilities with or without a reasonable accommodation.
- Must love dogs and cats...and people too!
- Team player who thrives on supporting the team in every way.
- Make educated recommendations to our clients and providing exceptional customer service.
- Works hard and has fun doing it!
- Eager to learn.
- Ability to work in changing environments, traveling throughout our Market.
- Responsible and accountable individuals.
- A can-do attitude.

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. 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, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.

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