1

Animal Rescue Jobs in Norfolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Hampton, VA ยท On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Mercury Animal Hospital, Inc . is actively recruiting a licensed Veterinary Technician to join our team. A friendly, caring, animal loving, individual with good work ethics and technician skills.

Showing results 21-40

Animal Rescue information

See Norfolk, VA salary details

$9

$20

$26

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Norfolk, VA is $20.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $24.18 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 Norfolk, VA?

The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

What cities near Norfolk, VA are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities near Norfolk, VA with the most Animal Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Norfolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,362 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Veterinarian - Acredale Animal Hospital: Kempsville

Mission Pet Health

Virginia Beach, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

General Information
Ref #
12922
Department
Veterinarian
Job Site
Acredale Animal Hospital (Kempsville)
Date Published
10-24-2025
Pay Class
Full-Time
Base Min.
$ 120000
Base Max.
$ 150000
Description & Requirements
Company Overview
Acredale Animal Hospital - Kempsville has proudly served the Virginia Beach community since 1986, providing compassionate, comprehensive small animal care. Our commitment to treating every pet like family has earned us an excellent 4.6-star Google rating and the trust of pet owners throughout the area.
Join a collaborative team that values mentorship, continuing education, and professional growth. Our full-service hospital offers wellness and preventive care, advanced diagnostics, surgery, urgent care, and advanced medical services, giving you the opportunity to practice high-quality medicine while expanding your skills in a supportive environment.
Located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, our hospital offers the perfect blend of career growth and coastal living, with beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant community that makes it an exceptional place to build a rewarding veterinary career.
Job Description
What Your Day-to-Day Looks Like
  • Build Lasting Relationships: Connect with clients and their pets, becoming their trusted partner in a pet's lifelong health.
  • Practice Your Best Medicine: From diagnosis to treatment, you'll lead patient care with the freedom to uphold the highest standards.
  • Educate and Empower: Clearly communicate findings and treatment plans, empowering clients to make informed decisions.
  • Collaborate and Grow: Work alongside a supportive paraprofessional team, contributing to a positive hospital culture.
Who We're Looking For
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.
  • A valid state license and in good standing to practice.
  • A collaborative spirit and a dedication to practicing the highest standard of medicine.
  • Excellent communication skills with a positive, friendly attitude.

Responsibilities and Benefits
How You're Supported
As part of the Mission Pet Health family, you get the autonomy of a local practice backed by the comprehensive benefits and resources of a larger network. The focus is on investing in you, so you can focus on what you love.
Generous Compensation
Competitive base salary and a monthly production bonus with no negative accrual.
Total Wellbeing
Comprehensive coverage including Health, Dental, Vision, and more, plus Maternity Leave and 24/7 TeleDoc access.
Financial Health
Plan for your future with a 401k featuring a generous company match, plus Long & Short-Term Disability insurance for peace of mind.
Commitment to Growth
Receive a yearly CE allowance with dedicated paid days off. Grow with leadership tracks and structured mentorship.
The Power of a Network
Tap into a nationwide community of over 20,000 veterinary professionals for collaboration and to explore your unique interests.
Peace of Mind
Company-paid Professional Liability Coverage, so you can focus on what you do best: practicing great medicine.
About Mission Pet Health
Mission Pet Health was founded by veterinarians on the belief that local practices thrive with clinical autonomy, collaboration, and medical excellence. The organization provides world-class support to its 850+ hospital teams on a hyper-local basis so they can focus on what matters most: the medicine, their patients, and their team culture. Learn more at missionpethealth.com.
Driving the award-winning culture are the WAG values - Work Together, Amaze, and Grow. Mission Pet Health is veterinarian-led, people-focused, and on a mission to be the best place to work in veterinary medicine.
EEO Statement: Mission Pet Health is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #AVMA