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Dog Rescue Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pet Supplies Plus

Assistant Store Team Leader

Ames, IA · On-site

... rescue coordinator and offer to host the next adoption event * join the conversation when you hear a team member assisting a neighbor in choosing between three very good natural dog food brands

Pet Supplies Plus

Assistant Store Team Leader

Ames, IA · On-site

... rescue coordinator and offer to host the next adoption event * join the conversation when you hear a team member assisting a neighbor in choosing between three very good natural dog food brands

All JobsDog Rescue JobsDog Rescue Jobs in Iowa

Dog Rescue information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$13

$17

How much do dog rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog rescue in Iowa is $13.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.73 and $14.66 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

Dog Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Rescue job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 86% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,719 per year, or $13.3 per hour.

Assistant Store Team Leader- Fleur

Bernau Capital Partners

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Assistant Store Team Leader
Is shopping with your 4-legged family member a tail waggin' good time? Do you believe carry out isn't just about pizza, it's for bags of kibble to? If you're the leader of the pack and enjoy providing products and services that enrich pets' lives, then come work in our neighborhood!
As Assistant Store Team Leader at Pet Supplies Plus, you're pawsitively passionate about people and their pets. Providing exceptional, neighborly service at every opportunity during your workday, you:
  • help your store team by example - including, but definitely not limited to, greeting a neighbor and their new puppy when they enter the store
  • recognize the local pug rescue coordinator and offer to host the next adoption event
  • join the conversation when you hear a team member assisting a neighbor in choosing between three very good natural dog food brands
  • Support STL in analyzing your store sales results and developing plans to maximize sales, neighbor engagement and productivity
  • create a fun, positive environment for the team and your neighbors; and a reputation for neighborly, knowledgeable, trustworthy, petcentric service in your neighborhood

...all while engaging with PSP neighbors and smiling in the face of puppy breath. Are you awesome? No, you're more than that. You're PAWsome.
Assistant Store Team Leader's key responsibilities include:
  • Assisting in the operational management of the stores
  • Adhering to operational policies and procedures (cleanliness, animal care, safety and security) that ensure exceptional service is provided to our neighbors
  • Assisting in promoting team member engagement and morale by understanding individual motivation and needs, recognizing and rewarding successful performance, and helping them achieve career goals
  • Supports STL in maintaining a fully staffed team and recruiting and onboarding for all levels in the store
  • Cultivating a learning culture by providing exceptional onboarding and development opportunities, along with coaching and feedback to team members
  • Connecting with community organizations to partner on events and marketing opportunities.

PAWsome Assistant Store Team Leaders will have:
  • 2+ years of experience leading a retail team
  • 4-year college degree or equivalent work experience
  • Microsoft Office knowledge is a must, as well as good communication skills
  • The ability to operate all equipment - including a forklift - to run the store is important, as well as being able to climb ladders, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 plus pounds
  • Candidates must be flexible to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
  • Have reliable transportation.
  • All candidates must pass the pre-employment background check and be 18 years of age or older.

Full-time Team Members will have access to a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
  • Paid time off including Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays
  • Company paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability options
  • 401(k) with a company match
  • Ongoing training and development

Pet Supplies Plus is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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