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Pet Care Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

Pet Sitter

Farmington, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $15.50/hr

Pet Care Technician -- Paws Around Motown West Oakland County, Michigan * Full-Time * Open Availability * Starting Pay $14.50 - $15.50 per hour Somewhere in Farmington, there's a golden retriever ...

Pet Sitter

Oakland, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $15.50/hr

Pet Care Technician - Paws Around Motown West Oakland County, Michigan • Full-Time • Open Availability • Starting Pay $14.50 - $15.50 per hour Somewhere in Farmington, there's a golden ...

... Assistant ! Schedule: Full-time opportunity with rotating Saturdays. About Us: VCA Beech Road ... Educate clients on general pet care and post-operative instructions. * Ensure cleanliness and ...

Veterinary Assistant

Redford, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... Assistant ! Schedule: Full-time opportunity with rotating Saturdays. About Us: VCA Beech Road ... Educate clients on general pet care and post-operative instructions. * Ensure cleanliness and ...

Animal Care Specialist

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

... * Assist with opening and closing procedures as assigned. * Perform additional duties and special projects as needed to support Pet Care Center operations. Key Responsibilities Animal Care ...

Animal Care Specialist

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

... * Assist with opening and closing procedures as assigned. * Perform additional duties and special projects as needed to support Pet Care Center operations. Key Responsibilities Animal Care ...

Animal Care Specialist

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

... * Assist with opening and closing procedures as assigned. * Perform additional duties and special projects as needed to support Pet Care Center operations. Key Responsibilities Animal Care ...

Animal Care Specialist

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

... * Assist with opening and closing procedures as assigned. * Perform additional duties and special projects as needed to support Pet Care Center operations. Key Responsibilities Animal Care ...

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Pet Care Assistant information

See Rochester, MI salary details

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How much do pet care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for pet care assistant in Rochester, MI is $12.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.62 and $13.27 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pet Care jobs in Rochester, MI?

The most popular types of Pet Care jobs in Rochester, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Pet Care Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI?

For Pet Care Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pet Care Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Pet Care Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI are:

What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Pet Care Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Pet Care Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Pet Care Assistant job openings in Rochester, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,625 per year, or $12.3 per hour.

Animal Care Attendant (Flexible Working Hours)

Novi, MI • On-site


Destination Pet
Veterinary Services • 11 - 50 employees

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 52 rated veterinary

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers


$14.75 - $15.75/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Welcome to Destination Pet. We are One Pack- a united team working together to elevate the love and lives of pet families. Our pet-obsessed professionals create a connected care network of trustworthy partners who bring creative innovation every day. We are revolutionizing the pet industry. Join us!
We're currently sniffing out our next Animal Care Attendant at Paw Print Inn
Do you speak fluent "woof" or "meow"? Know the joy of puppy kisses and the chaos of a zoomie's session? If you're passionate about paws and ready to turn your love for animals into a rewarding job, we've got a tail-wagging opportunity for you.
At Destination Pet, we're not just another Pet/Vet care center-we're a community that lives to elevate the love and lives of pet families. Since 2016, we've been serving up best-in-show care from coast to coast with day care, boarding, grooming, training, veterinary services, and more. Whether its belly rubs or brushing, our goal is simple: make pets feel at home and their humans feel at ease.
Perks & Pay:
Telehealth, 401K, Pet Insurance
Pay starts at $14.75-$15.75/hour DOE + tips
Access your earned wages anytime with DailyPay.
What You Should Know:
  • This is an on-your-feet, hands-on, sometimes-sweaty kind of job.
  • Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs (golden retrievers don't walk themselves to the tub).
  • Availability on evenings, weekends, and holidays required pets don't take days off.
  • Exposure to cleaning supplies, pet hair, and, ahem, "accidents" is part of the gig.
  • Must be able to be on feet for the duration of your shift.
  • Must be able to stand, walk and climb stairs frequently

Reporting To:
General Manager
What You Bring to the Table:
  • A borderline-obsessive love for animals. (We get it. We're the same.)
  • Prior kennel or animal care experience is a plus, but if you're brand new and eager to learn-we want to meet you!
  • A cool, calm, and professional demeanor-even when a Great Dane steals your mop.
  • A willingness to get your hands dirty (literally).

What You'll Be Doing (Besides Making Furry Friends for Life):
  • Keeping pet enclosures and play areas spotless, safe, and sanitized (because nobody likes a stinky litter box).
  • Serving up meals and fresh water like a 5-star pet resort concierge.
  • Monitoring the health, happiness, and, yes, poop of every pet guest-because details matter.
  • Reporting anything unusual to the General or Assistant Manager (you'll be their eyes and ears).
  • Supervising playtime, tail-wagging, and the occasional game of fetch.
  • Assisting with brushing and bath time (rubber ducky optional).
  • Handling laundry and belongings so every pet has clean snuggly stuff.
  • Making tails wag. That's the real goal here.
  • Other duties as assigned

Must have evening, weekend and holiday availability.
Destination Pet LLC affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, age, disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled.
Destination Pet LLC endeavors to make our employment website and application process accessible to all users and applicants. In doing so, we provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation or assistance completing the application process, please contact a member of our recruitment team.
At Destination Pet, we're all about creating a workplace that's bursting with diversity and inclusivity. We don't play favorites or judge folks based on skin color, religion, gender, age, disability, or any other protected characteristics. Our hiring decisions are solely based on what you can bring to the team. So, we're throwing the door wide open for all like-minded candidates who believe in celebrating and honoring diversity and inclusion. Ready to join our pack?


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