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Animal Transport Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Washington University of St. Louis

$17.87 - $27.06/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Non-animal transport loads will include caging supplies, rack systems, feed/bedding, small/large equipment and research-related materials. When serving as the backup driver, shift hours may need to ...

Animal Rescue League Of Iowa

Ranch Hand

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Occasional schedule flexibility may be needed based on animal care, transport, weather, or ... Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record. * Confidence working around large ...

ASPCA

Contingent Animal Relocation Driver

$25/hr

As a contingent driver for our Animal Relocation team, you will meet animal welfare professionals ... Using both land and air transportation, the ASPCA partners with "source" shelters in areas with ...

Ruff Start Rescue

Transport Vetting Helper

Princeton, MN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As a vetting transport helper, you will be responsible for attending animal transports (typically dogs) located at the office in Princeton. These typically happen on Saturdays.Professional experience ...

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Animal Transport Driver information

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How much do animal transport driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal transport driver in the United States is $20.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animal transport driver do?

An Animal Transport Driver is responsible for safely transporting animals, such as pets, livestock, or zoo animals, from one location to another. Their duties include ensuring the animals’ welfare during transit, following animal handling regulations, maintaining clean and secure transport vehicles, and adhering to schedules. The role requires knowledge of animal behavior, proper handling techniques, and sometimes specialized certifications depending on the type of animals being transported. Animal Transport Drivers may work for pet relocation services, farms, zoos, or animal rescue organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal transport driver?

To excel as an Animal Transport Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license, knowledge of animal care, and experience with safe driving practices. Familiarity with animal transport vehicles, GPS navigation systems, and adherence to animal welfare regulations are typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and compassion for animals help build trust with clients and ensure animal well-being during transit. These competencies are essential for ensuring the safe, humane, and efficient transport of animals while complying with legal and ethical standards.

What are some common challenges faced by animal transport drivers during long-distance hauls?

Animal Transport Drivers often face challenges such as managing animal stress, maintaining proper ventilation and temperature, and ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations during long journeys. They must monitor the animals’ health and behavior, make frequent stops for checks, and address unexpected issues like traffic delays or vehicle malfunctions. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of animal handling are essential for ensuring both the safety of the animals and timely deliveries.

What is the difference between Animal Transport Driver vs Pet Transport Specialist?

AspectAnimal Transport DriverPet Transport Specialist
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly specialized animal handling certificationsDriver's license, animal handling or care certifications
Work EnvironmentTransporting animals via trucks or vans, often long distancesTransporting pets, often in specialized vehicles, sometimes with additional care requirements
Employer & IndustryAnimal transportation companies, veterinary clinics, pet breedersPet relocation services, veterinary clinics, pet stores
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing animal transport roles with similar driving or animal care jobsIndividuals seeking specialized pet transportation careers or services

Animal Transport Drivers primarily focus on safely transporting animals over distances, often requiring driving skills and animal handling certifications. Pet Transport Specialists may have similar credentials but often emphasize pet care and comfort during transit. Both roles operate within the animal transportation industry but differ slightly in scope and focus.

Do you need a license to transport animals?

Animal transport drivers typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements, such as a livestock or transportation endorsement, depending on the type of animals and transport regulations. Additional certifications or training in animal handling and safety may also be required by local or federal authorities.

How much money do animal transport drivers make?

Animal transport drivers typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of animals transported. Many drivers work full-time and may need a commercial driver's license (CDL) and specialized training for handling animals safely.

How to become an animal transport driver?

To become an animal transport driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and experience driving large vehicles. Knowledge of animal handling, safety regulations, and proper vehicle maintenance is also important, and some employers may require specific certifications or training in animal care and transport procedures.
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What states have the most Animal Transport Driver jobs?

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Animal Transport Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Transport Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,891 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Flagstaff, AZ: Transport drivers needed to help shelter pets!

Best Friends Animal Society

Flagstaff, AZ • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Best Friends Animal Society rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Do you love being on the road? Looking for a meaningful way to make a difference for homeless pets in Arizona? We’d be thrilled to have you join us as a volunteer transport driver.

In this role, you’ll give lifesaving lifts to dogs and cats from shelters that are full to places where they’ll have a better chance of being adopted. Your time and kindness will open up critical space and resources for animals who need it most.

Most transports happen year-round and typically involve picking up animals in the Holbrook/Snowflake area and bringing them to the greater Phoenix area.

What to expect:

  • Plan for a time commitment of about one day, depending on where you’re driving from and to.
  • Most transports involve small groups of animals.
  • You’ll use your personal vehicle (don’t worry — cost of gas is reimbursed). Occasionally, a larger transport will need a rented van, and we’ll take care of those arrangements.
  • If you have pet transport crates, that’s great, but don’t worry if you don’t.

Requirements:

  • Must be 21 years or older
  • Must successfully complete the Best Friends driver approval process

For more details, you can review the full transport driver position description.

If you’re ready to help animals get their second chance, please email us at nationalvolunteers@bestfriends.org, and we’ll walk you through the next steps. Once you’re approved, we’ll add you to our team of transport drivers and reach out whenever there’s a need in your area.

Join us and make a real difference for pets in need—one transport at a time.

What Best Friends Animal Society employees say

Hours and flexibility

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