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Exotic Animal Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Red Door Animal Shelter

Animal Care Steward

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

We also regularly help rescue domestic chickens and ducks. Every year, Red Door rescues and finds ... exotic mammals a plus Qualifications Requirements Insured car and a valid driver's license Prior ...

Ohana Pet Hospital

Veterinarian

Ventura, CA · On-site

... animal rescue partners, vendors, community, and environment. This is reflected in our culture of a ... Dentistry (with digital dental x-ray) * Limited exotics medicine (reptiles, rabbits, pocket pets)

Ohana Pet Hospital

Veterinarian

Ventura, CA

... animal rescue partners, vendors, community, and environment. This is reflected in our culture of a ... Dentistry (with digital dental x-ray) * Limited exotics medicine (reptiles, rabbits, pocket pets)

Ohana Pet Hospital

Veterinarian

Ventura, CA · On-site

... animal rescue partners, vendors, community, and environment. This is reflected in our culture of a ... Dentistry (with digital dental x-ray) * Limited exotics medicine (reptiles, rabbits, pocket pets)

Ohana Pet Hospital

Veterinarian

Ventura, CA

... animal rescue partners, vendors, community, and environment. This is reflected in our culture of a ... Dentistry (with digital dental x-ray) * Limited exotics medicine (reptiles, rabbits, pocket pets)

Ohana Pet Hospital

Veterinarian

Ventura, CA · On-site

... animal rescue partners, vendors, community, and environment. This is reflected in our culture of a ... Dentistry (with digital dental x-ray) * Limited exotics medicine (reptiles, rabbits, pocket pets)

Ohana Pet Hospital

Veterinarian

Ventura, CA

... animal rescue partners, vendors, community, and environment. This is reflected in our culture of a ... Dentistry (with digital dental x-ray) * Limited exotics medicine (reptiles, rabbits, pocket pets)

Lions Tigers & Bears

Volunteer Coordinator

Alpine, CA · On-site

... of exotic animals. Through responsible rescue, high-quality animal care, community education, and legislative advocacy, the organization seeks to create a world where wild animals live free from ...

County of Orange

Animal Control Officer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

You'll investigate cases of cruelty and neglect, rescue sick, injured, or abandoned animals, and ... wild and exotic animals Investigate and document reports of animal cruelty or neglect, amongst ...

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Exotic Animal Rescue information

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$29.5K

$48.6K

$63.5K

How much do exotic animal rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for exotic animal rescue in the United States is $48,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Exotic Animal Rescue job?

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 are some common challenges faced by Exotic Animal Rescue professionals in the field?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Exotic Animal Rescue position, and why are they important?

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 degree do I need to work with exotic animals?

A degree in zoology, wildlife biology, animal science, or a related field is typically required to work with exotic animals in rescue roles. Relevant skills include knowledge of animal behavior, handling, and care, and certifications in animal first aid or safety can be beneficial.
More about Exotic Animal Rescue jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Exotic Animal Rescue jobs? The most popular types of Exotic Animal Rescue jobs are:
What states have the most Exotic Animal Rescue jobs? States with the most job openings for Exotic Animal Rescue jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Exotic Animal Rescue jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Exotic Animal Rescue jobs are:
Exotic Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exotic Animal Rescue job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,581 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Valley Animal Hospital of Merced

Merced, CA • On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Who we are:
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!
Apply Today: Send your resume to Jose Izarpate at Jizarpate@vetcor.com
What's in it for you:

Apply