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Local Animal Rescue Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

ProspectBArk

Experienced Dog Handler

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

... or animal rescue volunteer? WELL, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER. This is the job you've been waiting for ... age * local full-time resident of NYC (5 boros) * available PT or FT, minimum of (3) shifts ...

ProspectBArk

Experienced Dog Handler

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

... or animal rescue volunteer? WELL, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER. This is the job you've been waiting for ... age * local full-time resident of NYC (5 boros) * available PT or FT, minimum of (3) shifts ...

ASPCA

Veterinarian, Adoption Center

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Animal victims of cruelty and neglect brought to us by the NYPD and our National Field & Disaster ... shelter/rescue partners Where and When You'll Work The Adoption Center Veterinarian reports ...

ASPCA

Veterinarian, Adoption Center

New York, NY · On-site

Animal victims of cruelty and neglect brought to us by the NYPD and our National Field & Disaster ... Animals transferred in from shelter/rescue partners Where and When You'll Work * The Adoption ...

Pet Supplies Plus

Assistant Store Manager

Central Islip, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... local pug rescue coordinator and offer to host the next adoption event * join the conversation when ... Adhering to operational policies and procedures (cleanliness, animal care, safety and security ...

All JobsLocal Animal Rescue JobsLocal Animal Rescue Jobs in New York

Local Animal Rescue information

See New York salary details

$10

$23

$30

How much do local animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for local animal rescue in New York is $23.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $27.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common challenges faced by team members in a local animal rescue organization?

Team members in local animal rescue organizations often encounter challenges such as managing the emotional aspects of caring for neglected or abused animals, handling unpredictable situations during rescues, and balancing a high workload with limited resources. Collaboration with veterinarians, volunteers, and local authorities is crucial to ensure animal welfare and successful rehoming. Additionally, adapting to fast-changing priorities and maintaining effective communication within the team are key to providing the best possible care for animals in need.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Local Animal Rescue role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Local Animal Rescue role, you need a solid understanding of animal care, handling techniques, and basic veterinary knowledge, often supported by relevant training or certifications in animal welfare. Familiarity with animal shelter management software, animal first aid, and rescue equipment is typically required. Compassion, resilience, and strong communication skills help you work effectively with animals, the public, and fellow team members. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal safety, facilitating successful adoptions, and maintaining positive community relations.

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

AspectLocal Animal RescueAnimal Shelter Worker
CredentialsMay require animal care certifications, CPR, first aidOften requires similar certifications, experience in animal handling
Work EnvironmentVaries from outdoor rescues to shelter settings, often on-callPrimarily shelter facilities, consistent indoor environment
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, rescue groups, community organizationsMunicipal shelters, private shelters, animal welfare organizations
Search & Comparison IntentRescue operations, emergency response, volunteer opportunitiesShelter operations, daily animal care, adoption processes

Both roles involve caring for animals, but Local Animal Rescue focuses on emergency and outdoor rescues, while Animal Shelter Workers primarily handle daily shelter operations. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on environment and responsibilities.

What are local animal rescues?

Local animal rescues are organizations or groups dedicated to saving, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray, abandoned, or abused animals within a specific community or region. They often work with shelters, foster volunteers, and veterinarians to provide medical care, foster homes, and adoption services. Unlike large national organizations, local rescues focus on the needs of animals in their immediate area, helping to reduce overpopulation and improve animal welfare at the community level.

What qualifications do I need to be an animal welfare officer?

To become an animal welfare officer, candidates typically need a relevant qualification such as a diploma or degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field. Experience with animal care, strong communication skills, and knowledge of animal laws and welfare standards are also important. Certifications in animal first aid or behavior can enhance employability.

How to get into animal rescue?

To get into animal rescue, you can volunteer at local shelters or rescue organizations to gain experience and understand the field. Many roles require compassion, basic animal care skills, and sometimes certifications like pet first aid. Building connections and demonstrating commitment can help you pursue a career or volunteer opportunities in animal rescue.

Can I volunteer with animals without experience?

Yes, many animal rescue organizations welcome volunteers without prior experience. Training and supervision are often provided, and volunteers may assist with tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and socializing animals, making it accessible for beginners. Basic knowledge of animal care and a compassionate attitude are helpful but not always required.

What do I need to work at an animal rescue?

To work at an animal rescue, you typically need a genuine passion for animals, good communication skills, and the ability to handle physically demanding tasks. Relevant experience with animals, basic first aid or pet care certifications, and a flexible schedule are often beneficial. Some positions may require background checks or volunteer experience before employment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in New York? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Local Animal Rescue jobs? Cities in New York with the most Local Animal Rescue job openings:
Local Animal Rescue jobs near you

Experienced Dog Handler

ProspectBArk

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Are you a total and incurable DOG LOVER? Are you someone who has already worked as a dog walker, pet sitter, dog daycare handler, groomer, vet tech, vet assistant, shelter staff, or animal rescue volunteer?
WELL, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER. This is the job you've been waiting for!
THE CLEANEST AND QUIETEST DOG DAYCARE IN PARK SLOPE, BROOKLYN SEEKS EXPERIENCED DOG HANDLERS FOR PT/FT POSITIONS
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • legally authorized to work in the US for at least the next 12 months
  • over 19 years of age
  • local full-time resident of NYC (5 boros)
  • available PT or FT, minimum of (3) shifts required per week
  • previous experience feeding, walking, and playing with dogs of different sizes and temperaments

BENEFITS
Our Professional Pet Caretakers receive:
  • FULL HEALTH INSURANCE incl. Vision, Dental and Mental Health
  • Industry-Leading Compensation
  • PAID training and PAID Industry Certifications
  • 401(K)
  • COMMUTER benefits
  • PAID sick days & PAID vacations
  • Friends & Family Discount for daycare, dog walks & pet sits for your own pets
  • Opportunity for Advancement & Animal Career Development
  • LIABILITY Insurance & BONDING
  • ... and a whole HOST of other amazing benefits

Here are some other basic job requirements:
- authorized to work in the US for at least the next 12 months
- 21 years of age
- full-time resident of NYC
- able to commit to this position for 12 months minimum from date of hire
- able to work M-F, 8AM-1PM, 12PM-7PM or 2PM-8PM (min. 3 shifts per week), some nights and weekends as scheduled in advance, plus one major holiday season (Christmas or Thanksgiving)
We are physically hardy, can lift an animal 30 lbs or a 5 gallon bucket of water. We will provide extensive training in dog psychology and dog body language, as well as how to control and interact with a room full of up to 16 dogs! A working smart phone with unlimited data and a reliable mode of transportation are required.
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL DAYCARE HANDLERS ARE ALSO OFFERED DOG WALKS AND PET SITS IN THEIR NEIGHBORHOOD, OR NEAR THE DAYCARE, FOR ADDITIONAL INCOME.
**THINK YOU MIGHT JUST LOVE WORKING WITH DOGS FOR A LIVING? TRADE IN YOUR KEYBOARD to spend time with our well-behaved, happy, fun-loving daycare pups!
Apply Now! We look forward to meeting you!

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