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Pet Care Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Assistant General Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$44K - $48K/yr

Assistant General Manager, Pet Resorts (NVA) Do you love pets, people, and leading teams? Are you ... A smooth, consistent operation that delivers excellent pet care and customer service * Strong ...

NVA

Assistant General Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$44K - $47K/yr

Assistant General Manager, Pet Resorts (NVA) Do you love pets, people, and leading teams? Are you ... A smooth, consistent operation that delivers excellent pet care and customer service * Strong ...

Petco

Sales Associate

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Share accurate product and pet care information to help customers make informed choices. * Help ... Let's Go! * Assist customers in selecting products and services that meet their pets' needs.

Petco

Sales Associate

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Share accurate product and pet care information to help customers make informed choices. * Help ... Let's Go! * Assist customers in selecting products and services that meet their pets' needs.

Billet Health

CNA for Caregiving Services

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

... pet care, meal prep and maintaining a clean, safe environment. * Perform delegated tasks as ... Active CNA License * Reliable Auto with Current Auto Insurance and Valid Driver License * Current ...

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All JobsPet Care JobsPet Care Assistant JobsPet Care Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Pet Care Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$8

$12

$17

How much do pet care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for pet care assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $12.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.87 and $13.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pet care assistant?

Pet Care Assistants are professionals who support the daily care and well-being of animals in settings such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet boarding facilities, and grooming salons. Their duties often include feeding, cleaning, exercising, and monitoring animals, as well as assisting veterinarians or other staff with basic procedures. They play a vital role in ensuring animals are comfortable, healthy, and safe. This entry-level role is ideal for those who are passionate about animals and interested in pursuing a career in animal care.

What does a pet care assistant do?

A pet care assistant provides in-home care for domestic animals. Your responsibilities depend on the kind and breed of the pets in question, but may include walking dogs, administering prescribed medication, cleaning litter boxes, and providing exercise opportunities. Duties often involve feeding and monitoring their habits, and occasionally basic obedience training. Pet care assistants may use a variety of alternate job titles, such as pet sitters, doggie daycare providers, and boarding facility workers. Some veterinary clinics have a caretaker on staff to manage animals that are injured or sick.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pet care assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pet Care Assistant, you need a basic knowledge of animal care, handling, and welfare, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal care software, basic grooming tools, and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you interact effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills ensure the well-being of pets, support the smooth operation of veterinary or pet care facilities, and foster trust with clients.

What are some typical challenges pet care assistants face when working with different types of animals?

Pet Care Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling animals with varying temperaments, managing multiple tasks during busy periods, and ensuring the comfort and safety of pets under their care. Each animal may respond differently to new environments, so patience and adaptability are key. Additionally, working closely with veterinarians and other staff requires strong communication skills to relay important information about each pet’s health and behavior.

What is the difference between Pet Care Assistant vs Pet Groomer?

AspectPet Care AssistantPet Groomer
Required CredentialsBasic animal care knowledge, certifications varyGrooming certifications or licenses often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinicsGrooming salons, pet spas, veterinary clinics
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, pet service providersPet grooming salons, pet boutiques
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level animal care rolesSpecialized grooming skills focus

The Pet Care Assistant primarily provides basic care and support for animals in various settings, while a Pet Groomer specializes in grooming and styling pets. Both roles may work in similar environments, but Pet Groomers require specific grooming certifications and focus on grooming tasks, whereas Pet Care Assistants handle general animal care and support. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and career goals.

What do you need to be a pet care assistant?

To be a pet care assistant, you typically need a genuine love for animals, good communication skills, and the ability to handle various pet needs. Some positions require basic knowledge of animal behavior and may prefer previous experience or certifications in pet care or first aid. Reliability and the ability to work flexible hours are also important qualities for this role.
More about Pet Care Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Pet Care jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

The most popular types of Pet Care jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

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For Pet Care Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Pet Care Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Pet Care Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Pet Care Assistant job openings:

Pet Care Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pet Care Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,186 per year, or $12.6 per hour.

Emergency Veterinary Assistant

VCA Animal Hospitals

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

Location: 8850 Holly Ave NE Suite K, Albuquerque, NM 87122
Are you a skilled veterinary assistant with a passion for emergency medicine? Do you thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments where you can make a real difference? If so, VCA Veterinary Care Animal Hospital and Referral Center has an exciting opportunity for you!
We are currently seeking a dedicated Emergency Veterinary Assistant to join our dynamic team.
Schedule: Full-time opportunity with flexible scheduling options, including 4 x 10-hour shifts or 3 x 12-hour shifts.
About Us:
At VCA Veterinary Care Animal Hospital and Referral Center, we provide top-tier emergency and critical care services for pets in need. Our facility is equipped with the latest technology, and our team is comprised of compassionate professionals who are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care.
  • Assist in Emergency Procedures: Support veterinarians and technicians during emergency surgeries, trauma care, and critical treatments.
  • Patient Care: Provide compassionate and attentive care to emergency patients, including monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing comfort.
  • Client Communication: Communicate effectively with pet owners, providing them with updates and information about their pet's condition and care instructions.
  • Maintain Equipment and Supplies: Ensure that all emergency equipment is properly maintained and that supplies are well-stocked and ready for use.
  • Team Collaboration: Work closely with our emergency veterinary team to ensure the highest standard of care and a seamless operation during emergencies.

Qualifications:
  • Experience: 1+ years of experience in veterinary medicine.
  • Emergency Medicine Passion: A strong interest in emergency and critical care, with the ability to remain calm and efficient in high-pressure situations.
  • Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to interact with clients and team members in a professional and empathetic manner.
  • Organizational Skills: Strong ability to multitask and manage time efficiently in a busy, fast-paced environment.

Compensation: $18 - 26/hour. The starting range is determined by skill set and years of experience in the field
Benefits: VCA offers a comprehensive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and professional development of its associates. Key benefits include:
  • Free mental wellness subscriptions (Head Space and 12 Lyra Health Sessions)
  • Referral bonuses and Competitive wages
  • Medical, dental & vision insurance for you and your family
  • Life, long and short-term disability insurance included
  • Paid parental leave
  • Paid vacation ), sick time, and holiday pay
  • 401(k) with corporate match
  • Pet care discounts (40-100%)
  • Associate-led equity, inclusion, and diversity groups
  • Free Continuing Education through our online WoofU
  • Associate discounts on major cell phone carriers, car rentals, entertainment, and more!
  • Plus so much more

How to Apply:
If you are passionate about providing high-quality care to animals and want to be a part of our dedicated team, apply today!
We look forward to welcoming a new member to our veterinary family who shares our commitment to the well-being of animals.
If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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