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Animal Rescue Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

City of Lacey

Animal Care Technician

Lacey, WA

$3K - $4K/mo

BASIC PURPOSE Reporting to the Animal Welfare & Field Services Manager, the Animal Care Technician ... Coordinate or assist with our rescue partner program. Other duties as assigned Cross trains in ...

Uw

Animal Technician 1 (Multiple Opportunities)

Seattle, WA

$18 - $24.25/hr

The UW animal care program is accredited by AAALAC International and provides services to over 400 principal investigators. DCM faculty members, postdoctoral fellows, and residents conduct basic and ...

Seattle Children's Hospital

Animal Technician I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $28.48/hr

Conduct laboratory animal care and associated support duties under close supervision according to standards set forth by the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (the Guide) to maintain ...

Vetcor

Veterinarian - Olympia, WA

Olympia, WA

$115K - $140K/yr

Associate Veterinarian Chambers Prairie Animal Hospital - Olympia, WA Join a collaborative, high-performing team at Chambers Prairie Animal Hospital , a well-established mixed animal practice in ...

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Animal Rescue information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$10

$22

$29

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Tacoma, WA is $22.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $26.83 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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA? For Animal Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Tacoma, WA are:
What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you

Associate Veterinarian (part-time) - Deschutes Animal Clinic - Tumwater, WA

Deschutes Animal Clinic - WellHaven Pet Health

Olympia, WA

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Ask about our Sign-on bonus and Relocation Support!

Deschutes Animal Clinic, a state-of-the-art medical, small animal veterinary hospital and a leader in pet health care dedicated to serving the well-being of Tumwater's furry friends, is seeking a Veterinarian to join our happy team part-time (2 days per week) in this well-established practice.

Nestled into the base of the Puget Sound, Tumwater is the southern gateway to the Seatle/Tacoma metro area. We are a short drive to downtown Olympia, with its eclectic selection of restaurants, art galleries, and quaint shops. With close access to Mount Rainer and Olympic National Park, Tumwater is a picturesque community with convenient access to all the beauty and recreation the Pacific Northwest offers.

We believe in nurturing the human-pet bond and creating a harmonious relationship between people and pets. We provide professional and trusted services, from vaccinations to advanced surgical procedures, and we proudly care for our clients, pets, and each other. We also work with Local 5013C non-profit animal rescue groups and enjoy a close relationship with our local humane society.

What makes WellHaven unique:

  • Quarterly production bonuses with no negative accrual
  • No non-competes—your future stays in your hands
  • Leadership opportunities
  • 401K with company match
  • A CE allowance that flexes with your interests
  • Pet Wellness plans and scrub allowance
  • And so much more!

Job Summary

The Associate DVM ensures a high quality of veterinary care, client service, employee well-being, and productivity of the veterinary medical team. The Principal Doctor and Practice Manager will lead the Associate DVM to ensure the well-being of the hospital environment, medical quality, and business performance of the hospital.


Key Responsibilities

  • Ensure consistent, high-quality care, safe and exceptional service to maintain a positive hospital environment, uphold medical standards, and support business performance
  • Adhere to all WellHaven protocols and practices and oversee employees to prioritize practice goals
  • Collaborate with the Principal Doctor to establish development plans that align with hospital objectives
  • Practice veterinary medicine in compliance with the State Veterinary Practice Act, Federal and/or State Controlled Substance laws, WellHaven Code of Ethics, and maintain appropriate medical record documentation
  • Maintain thorough and accurate medical charting for all patients, consistently meeting hospital quality control standards
  • Provide comprehensive client communication, including in-person, phone, and email as needed
  • Participate in community events, external marketing initiatives, and hospital projects
  • Demonstrate proficiency in anesthesia, surgery, dentistry, and current medical practices
  • Advocate for exceptional client service and patient well-being
  • Provide medical training to support staff (new graduates will gain experience over time).
  • Willingness to train/lead/manage support staff as required

Customer Service Delivery:

  • Consistently provide professional, efficient, and exceptional service
  • Demonstrate excellent communication and organizational skills when interacting with the veterinary team and clients
  • Effectively adapt to individual clients and their needs
  • Effectively resolve customer complaints as appropriate

Other:

  • Lead and guide the team to ensure the hospital meets safety standards and regulations set by the DEA and OSHA (new graduates will gain experience over time).
  • Meet all OSHA standards and regulations as outlined in company policies
  • Ability to perform other job duties as assigned

Required Skills and Knowledge

  • Uphold integrity and ethics in all actions and behaviors
  • Stay current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine through ongoing professional development and continuing education to maintain certification and improve knowledge and skills
  • Drive for results by demonstrating motivation and determination to achieve goals and deliver high-quality outcomes
  • Provide consistent, high-quality care, safe and exceptional medical services
  • Remain action-oriented and effectively set priorities
  • Work well in an extremely fast-paced work environment, remaining calm and resilient
  • Learn new computer software systems (EMR, Scheduling, etc.)
  • Provide a high level of accountability

Education and Experience

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) or equivalent degree required
  • State Veterinary Board License
  • On the first day of employment, must be in good standing with the state(s) employed to work for WellHaven
  • Current USDA Accreditation is a plus!

Work Location, Environment, and Physical Requirements

  • The Associate Doctor position is performed onsite at our hospital or an approved offsite event location. Remote work is not available for this position
  • The hospital environment includes limited space, smells from pet waste, and noise (barking, etc.)
  • Schedules may include 10+ hour shifts, Saturdays, evenings, and holidays
  • Good hand-eye coordination, arm-hand-finger dexterity with the ability to reach and grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard, operate equipment, and read information
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
  • Able to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds
  • May routinely be exposed to pets that may bite or scratch, biological hazards, anesthesia medications (smells), radiation if near an Xray machine, prescription medications, including controlled substances

Salary range:

  • $60,000 - $90,000 + production

Additional Information

Our hospital is part of the WellHaven Pet Health (“WellHaven”) network of hospitals. This allows us to have a more extensive and stronger support system, connecting with other hospitals in the area while remaining autonomous.

WellHaven helps veterinarians and their teams succeed both personally and professionally. We value our medical teams and strive to support each team member each and every day. Our focus on personal growth, practice support, and life balance frame the relationship we want to have with our hospital teams. This people-first approach has made a considerable difference in the lives of our teams, clients, pets, our communities, and the health of our hospitals.

We’ve been recognized in Inc. Magazine for making a difference in our community and in Forbes for being named one of America's Best Startup Employers. It is an exciting time to be part of the WellHaven team and an excellent time for you to consider joining us!

Please learn more about WellHaven at www.wellhaven.com.

WellHaven Benefits

WellHaven offers competitive pay and an excellent benefits package.

Please review our benefits package at: https://wellhaven.com/wellhaven-employment-benefits/

Commitment to Diversity

WellHaven is an Equal Opportunity Employer. WellHaven is committed to complying with all applicable federal, state, and/or local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including transgender status), marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, age, military or veteran status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other status protected by law.

In accordance with federal, state, and local law, WellHaven may provide reasonable accommodation to known physical or mental limitations of applicants during the hiring process unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on WellHaven. For more information, please contact WellHaven HR at HR@wellhaven.com.

Pay Transparency Disclaimer

WellHaven Pet Health provides wage range information in accordance with applicable pay transparency laws. Third-party job boards and recruiting platforms may omit or misrepresent this information when reposting our job requisitions. WellHaven Pet Health is not responsible for any discrepancies in such postings. For the authoritative and most up-to-date wage range information for all positions and locations, please refer exclusively to our official careers page: https://wellhaven.com/join-the-team/.