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Exotic Animal Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

San Bernardino County

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA

$19.41 - $28.18/hr

Primary duties include feeding exotic animals, observing and documenting animal behavior, answering ... Animal shelter or rescue organization. Stable, ranch, farm, kennel, or similar animal-care setting.

Vetcor

Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Merced, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

... exotics, and pocket pets in Merced, CA, delivering top-notch veterinary care. We've been named ... VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost ...

VetCor

Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Merced, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

... exotics, and pocket pets in Merced, CA, delivering top-notch veterinary care. We've been named ... VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost ...

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Exotic Animal Rescue information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$47.9K

$62.7K

How much do exotic animal rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for exotic animal rescue in California is $47,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exotic animal rescue?

An Exotic Animal Rescue job involves rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming exotic or non-domesticated animals in need. This can include reptiles, birds, small mammals, and even larger wildlife that have been abandoned, injured, or illegally kept as pets. Professionals in this field work with veterinarians, wildlife organizations, and law enforcement to provide medical care, proper housing, and behavioral rehabilitation. The goal is to ensure the animals' well-being and, when possible, reintroduce them to their natural habitats or find suitable sanctuaries or responsible homes.

What skills and qualifications are needed for exotic animal rescue?

Exotic Animal Rescue professionals require extensive knowledge of animal behavior, husbandry, and emergency care, often supported by degrees in zoology, veterinary science, or related fields. Certifications such as animal handling permits, first aid for wildlife, and training with animal transport and containment equipment are commonly needed. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help them adapt to unpredictable situations and coordinate with law enforcement or veterinary partners. These competencies are essential for ensuring animal welfare, safety, and effective rescue operations.

What are common challenges faced by exotic animal rescue professionals?

Exotic Animal Rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable or dangerous situations, such as handling frightened or aggressive animals and navigating challenging environments. They may also have to work odd hours, respond to emergencies on short notice, and manage the emotional aspects of animal distress and rehabilitation. Collaboration with veterinarians, law enforcement, and wildlife agencies is frequently required to ensure the safe and legal rescue of animals. Successfully overcoming these challenges demands resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to animal welfare, which can make the work deeply rewarding for those passionate about helping exotic species.

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

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

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

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

Exotic Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exotic Animal Rescue job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,945 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Veterinarian | High-Quality Medicine in a Community You Will Love

Merced, CA • On-site

New Frontier Animal Medical Center
See more jobs at New Frontier Animal Medical Centerexternal

$170 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Full-Time/Part-Time Veterinarian – Valley Animal Hospital, Merced, CA

Since 1985, Valley Animal Hospital (VAH) has proudly served dogs, cats, exotics, and pocket pets in Merced, CA, delivering top-notch veterinary care. We’ve been named “Favorite Veterinary Clinic” in the Merced Sun-Star Reader’s Choice Awards three years in a row!

Our welcoming hospital features superb veterinarians, 3 licensed veterinary technicians, and a dedicated support staff committed to patients, clients, and community. VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost spay/neuter services through a local non‑profit program.

We are seeking a Full-Time or Part-Time Veterinarian to join our community-focused practice.

Where We Are

Merced is a growing, affordable community with a bright future. With UC Merced nearby, there are exciting opportunities to grow your clientele if you enjoy building strong client relationships. Residents and visitors enjoy lakes, reservoirs, wildlife wetlands, and the historic Castle Air Museum. For outdoor lovers, Yosemite National Park is just a couple of hours away.

This is a great opportunity for a veterinarian who wants to stay and grow in a small, close‑knit community.

Our Facility
  • Comfortable, stand‑alone hospital – designed for a smooth, efficient workflow.
  • Exam rooms: 6 (one small, closet‑sized).
  • Surgical suite: 3 tables, ideal for up to 2 veterinarians at a time.
  • Treatment area: includes dental table.
  • Boarding: small on‑site facility.
What We Offer
  • Work/life balance – no after‑hour requirements.
  • Flexible Schedule Options:
  • Four 10‑hour workdays.
  • Part‑time or relief work welcome.
  • No on‑call, flexible shifts.
  • State‑of‑the‑art equipment:
  • Digital radiography (standard & dental).
  • Ultrasound.
  • Bovie electrocautery unit.
  • Advanced procedures: soft tissue, orthopedic, dental surgeries, chemotherapy.
  • In‑house lab testing: IDEXX CBC/Chem.
  • Client engagement: Rover Rewards Loyalty Program.
Mentorship & Support

We value growth and hands‑on learning! While our clinic pace is busy, we provide a gradual onboarding process for new graduates to ease into managing a full caseload. You’ll have the opportunity to learn by doing, steadily building your confidence and skills while integrating into our workflow.

Success in this role is enhanced by excellent communication skills, as building strong relationships with clients and our team is essential for providing top‑notch care.

We also support Large Animal Veterinarians transitioning to small animal medicine and provide resources for new graduates to connect, collaborate, and thrive:

  • Structured orientation with 1‑on‑1 surgical guidance.
  • Zoom calls and roundtables with other recent graduates.
  • Peer advisors for networking and career guidance.
  • Dedicated Slack group for case reviews and collaboration.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $170,000 – $200,000 annually (DOE).
  • Generous sign‑on bonus.
  • Relocation assistance.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • CE allowance + paid CE days.
  • Paid parental leave (birth/adoption).
  • Licensing, dues, and liability coverage.
  • FSA, EAP, staff discounts, and referral bonuses.
  • Exclusive Perks Through Resources for Living – savings on electronics, travel, entertainment, fitness, and more.

We have a positive, well‑being‑focused culture and a supportive, collaborative team. Join us and grow your career while making a real impact in our community!

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