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Dog Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vetcor

Veterinarian- Santa Clarita, CA

Santa Clarita, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

We proudly support local rescues including Wolf Connection, SoCal French Bulldog Rescue, Sweet Angel Dog Rescue, and Studio Animal Services. Schedule & Workflow * Monday-Friday: 8 am-5 pm * Saturday ...

NVA

Veterinary Medical Oncologist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Veterinary Medical Oncologist Base Salary: $200,000-$250,000 based on experience and qualifications Full-Time opportunity in San Francisco, California Schedule: FT Locum applicants are also welcome ...

NVA

Veterinary Criticalist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$225K - $250K/yr

We share the neighborhood and foster close ties with multiple pet boarding facilities, the city's busiest primary care and animal shelter practice, a senior dog rescue, and the animal care and ...

HSSV

Animal Flow Foster Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Overview The Animal Flow Foster Associate supports both the rescue and foster programs within the ... Conduct dog-to-dog introductions for dogs of all sizes including those over 40 lbs. (for assessing ...

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All JobsDog Rescue JobsDog Rescue Jobs in California

Dog Rescue information

See California salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do dog rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog rescue in California is $14.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $15.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is dog rescue?

Dog rescue refers to the process of saving dogs from dangerous, neglectful, or abusive situations and finding them safe, loving homes. Dog rescue organizations often work to rehabilitate and care for dogs that have been abandoned, surrendered, or found as strays. They provide medical care, foster homes, and adoption services to ensure each dog has the chance for a better life. Many dog rescues also advocate for responsible pet ownership and work to educate the public about animal welfare. The goal is to reduce the number of homeless dogs and help each animal find a permanent, caring family.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in dog rescue?

To thrive in Dog Rescue, you need experience in animal care, knowledge of canine behavior, and often a background in veterinary assistance or animal welfare. Familiarity with animal management software, first aid certifications, and basic handling equipment is typically required. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and crisis management skills help you stand out in this field. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of rescued dogs while effectively coordinating adoptions and rehabilitation efforts.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in dog rescue, and how can they be managed?

Dog rescue professionals often encounter emotional challenges, including working with abused or neglected animals and making difficult decisions about their care. Managing high volumes of animals and coordinating with volunteers and adopters can also be demanding. To cope, it's important to practice self-care, seek support from team members, and participate in ongoing training. Building strong communication skills and staying organized can help professionals handle the fast-paced and emotionally charged environment typical of dog rescue organizations.

What is the difference between Dog Rescue vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectDog RescueAnimal Shelter Worker
Required CredentialsNone mandatory; experience with animals helpfulOften requires animal care or shelter management training
Work EnvironmentRescue missions, outdoor and varied locationsIndoor shelter facilities, administrative tasks
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, rescue organizationsMunicipal or private animal shelters
Common Search/ComparisonRescue efforts, volunteer opportunitiesAnimal shelter jobs, animal care roles

Dog Rescue involves actively saving dogs from dangerous or neglectful situations, often requiring outdoor work and rescue skills. Animal Shelter Workers typically manage daily care, administrative tasks, and shelter operations. While both roles focus on animal welfare, Dog Rescue emphasizes emergency and outdoor rescue activities, whereas Animal Shelter Workers focus on shelter management and daily animal care.

How do you become a dog rescuer?

To become a dog rescuer, individuals typically volunteer or work with animal shelters, rescue organizations, or shelters that focus on dog rescue. Gaining knowledge of animal care, handling skills, and sometimes obtaining certifications in pet first aid or animal behavior can improve prospects; a compassionate attitude and patience are essential. No formal education is required, but experience with animals and understanding rescue procedures are beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to Dog Rescue jobs in California?

For Dog Rescue jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dog Rescue jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Dog Rescue jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Dog Rescue jobs?

Cities in California with the most Dog Rescue job openings:

Dog Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Rescue job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,125 per year, or $14 per hour.

Veterinarian- Santa Clarita, CA

Pinnacle Veterinary Center

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Who we are:
Pinnacle Veterinary Center is seeking an Associate Veterinarian to join our collaborative, high-energy 3-doctor team supported by 8 dedicated support staff. We are a general practice built on strong medicine, mentorship, and a culture where doctors are supported, challenged, and genuinely enjoy coming to work.
Our Values
We believe in collaborative medicine, strong mentorship, and a supportive environment where doctors can grow clinically while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Communication, compassion, continuous learning, and mutual respect are at the core of how we practice.
Our Hospital
Built in 2018, our modern general practice includes:
  • 4 exam rooms
  • 1 treatment area
  • Surgery suite
  • Digital radiology & dental radiology
  • Ultrasound
  • 9 small kennels & 3 large runs
  • Paper-lite workflow with strong technical support

We are a 90% small animal / 10% exotics hospital-an increasingly unique and valued service in our region. We also partner with an in-house orthopedic surgeon, allowing us to offer advanced procedures at more accessible pricing while creating strong learning opportunities for our doctors.
We proudly support local rescues including Wolf Connection, SoCal French Bulldog Rescue, Sweet Angel Dog Rescue, and Studio Animal Services.
Schedule & Workflow
  • Monday-Friday: 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday: 8am-3pm
  • Closed Sundays

Our doctor schedule is structured to support balance, efficiency, and surgical growth:
  • One DVM performs surgery/dentals (8am-12pm), then appointments (1pm-5pm)
  • One DVM runs appointments all day
  • Roles rotate to ensure all doctors receive consistent surgical exposure

Each DVM receives at least 2 surgery days per week, and there are always 2 doctors on site for support and collaboration.
We are seeking full-time (4-5 days/week), though part-time may be considered. Friday and Saturday coverage is especially important.
Culture & Team Environment
Our team is close-knit, energetic, and deeply supportive. We work hard, but we also prioritize connection, appreciation, and fun.
We regularly host:
  • Monthly staff and DVM meetings
  • Lunch & Learns every other month
  • Team-building events (escape rooms, craft nights, seasonal outings)
  • Birthday celebrations and milestone recognition
  • Creative hospital events like pajama day (with free nail trims, pup cups, and client participation)
  • Wellness initiatives including massage days in-clinic

We intentionally build a culture where people feel valued, supported, and excited to come to work.
Compensation & Benefits
We offer a competitive ProSal model with strong earning potential and no negative accrual:
  • $130K-$150K ProSal base range (no negative accrual)
  • $20K sign-on bonus (DOE)
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • CE allowance, professional dues, and liability coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness support
  • Exclusive employee discounts (travel, dining, fitness, entertainment, electronics, and more)

Location - Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita offers a highly desirable Southern California lifestyle with excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor recreation. Enjoy hiking, biking, and year-round sunshine, with easy access to Los Angeles, dining, entertainment, and attractions like Six Flags Magic Mountain.
Please send your resume to Jose at Jizarpate@vetcor.com. We are looking for a veterinarian who wants more than just a job-someone who values strong medicine, real mentorship, and a team that supports each other every day.
What's in it for you:

Apply