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Dog Rescue Jobs in San Mateo, CA (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Veterinary Medical Oncologist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $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 ...

NVA

Veterinary Medical Oncologist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $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 ...

The Foggy Dog

Social Media Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

About Us At The Foggy Dog, we believe your best friend deserves the best. That's why we are ... Build authentic relationships with brand ambassadors, creators, rescue organizations, and other ...

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 ...

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 San Mateo, CA

Dog Rescue information

See San Mateo, CA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do dog rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog rescue in San Mateo, CA is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.79 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 San Mateo, CA?

For Dog Rescue jobs in San Mateo, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dog Rescue jobs in San Mateo, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Dog Rescue jobs in San Mateo, CA are:

What cities near San Mateo, CA are hiring for Dog Rescue jobs?

Cities near San Mateo, CA with the most Dog Rescue job openings:

Dog Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Rescue job openings in San Mateo, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,613 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Dog Walker & Associate Dog Trainer

Sniff SF

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description
Dog Walker & Associate Trainer
San Francisco, CA | Full-Time | $53,000-$58,000 + Benefits
Looking for a career that gets you out from behind a desk?
At Sniff San Francisco, you'll spend your days exploring the city's parks, building relationships with incredible dogs, and learning the art and science of canine behavior. We don't just walk dogs-we develop them through structured play, reward-based training, and active engagement.
We're one of San Francisco's highest-rated dog care companies, and we're looking for exceptional people who want to build a career in professional dog care.
No professional dog experience is required. We provide comprehensive paid training in dog handling, canine behavior, reward-based training, and everything you'll need to become a permitted San Francisco dog walker.
This is a profession with room to grow-not just a job.
Before You Apply
This is an active, physically demanding position. You'll likely thrive here if you're the kind of person who would rather spend the day outdoors than behind a computer.
Every day you'll:
  • Walk 8-12 miles throughout San Francisco.
  • Spend 6-8 hours outdoors, rain or shine.
  • Climb hills, stairs, and uneven terrain.
  • Safely manage groups of energetic dogs.
  • Stay alert, engaged, and moving for most of your shift.

If you're happiest hiking, running, backpacking, working outdoors, or being active all day, you'll probably love this job.
Responsibilities
What You'll Do
Every day is different, but your responsibilities include:
• Leading structured group walks throughout San Francisco.
• Timely pickup and drop-off of dogs
• Reinforcing positive behaviors using modern, reward-based training methods.
• Helping dogs build confidence through play, enrichment, and socialization.
• Monitoring canine body language and ensuring the safety of every dog in your care.
• Working closely with teammates in the field-our walkers support one another, and you're never alone.
• Building trusted relationships with clients through excellent communication and professionalism.
Qualifications
Who Thrives Here
This role is ideal for people who are:
• Passionate about dogs and fascinated by animal behavior.
• Hikers, runners, climbers, or outdoor enthusiasts.
• Veterinary assistants, vet tech students, or aspiring trainers.
• Animal rescue or shelter volunteers.
• Excellent communicators who enjoy working with both people and dogs.
• Reliable, punctual, and highly accountable.
• Calm under pressure and able to think quickly.
• Team-oriented and eager to learn.
• No animal care experience is preferred. Zero, zip, zilch.
• Please do not apply if you do not live in San Francisco

Apply