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Service Dog Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Dog Bather

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

... services, and more. Whether it's belly rubs or brushing, our goal is simple: make pets feel at home ... Bathing dogs of all sizes, breeds, and personalities-with kindness and care. * Blow drying ...

... services, and more. Whether it's belly rubs or brushing, our goal is simple: make pets feel at home ... Bathing dogs of all sizes, breeds, and personalities-with kindness and care. * Blow drying ...

Compensation: $14.00 - $16.00 per hour Hounds Town offers a unique and fun approach to pet daycare, boarding and spa services. Were not here to teach old dogs new tricks, were here to let them just ...

Compensation: $14.00 - $16.00 per hour Hounds Town offers a unique and fun approach to pet daycare, boarding and spa services. We're not here to teach old dogs new tricks, we're here to let them just ...

Compensation: $14.00 - $16.00 per hour Hounds Town offers a unique and fun approach to pet daycare, boarding and spa services. We're not here to teach old dogs new tricks, we're here to let them just ...

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Service Dog information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do service dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for service dog in Reston, VA is $14.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by service dog trainers and handlers in maintaining a service dog's performance in real-world environments?

Service dog trainers and handlers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the dog remains focused and responsive in distracting public settings, maintaining consistent training standards, and addressing any behavioral issues that may arise over time. Additionally, adapting the dog's training to the specific needs of the handler and keeping up with regular retraining sessions are crucial for long-term success. Collaboration with veterinary professionals and ongoing communication with the handler are also essential to support the dog's health and performance.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The 7 7 7 rule for dogs is a guideline suggesting that puppies should be fed seven times a day until they are three months old, then transitioned to three meals a day until six months, and finally to two meals a day as adults. For service dogs, consistent training, socialization, and proper nutrition are essential for their development and performance. This rule helps ensure proper growth and health during different stages of a service dog's life.

What is the most common service dog job?

The most common service dog job is assisting individuals with mobility impairments by retrieving objects, opening doors, or providing stability. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that help their handlers maintain independence and safety in daily activities.

Does lupus qualify for a service dog?

Service dogs can be trained to assist individuals with lupus if the condition significantly impairs daily functioning, such as managing symptoms or alerting to medical issues. The qualification depends on the individual's specific needs and a healthcare professional's documentation; the dog must be trained to perform tasks related to the disability. Certification and training are essential for the dog to be recognized as a service animal under the law.

What is the difference between Service Dog vs Therapy Dog?

AspectService DogTherapy Dog
Required credentials/certificationsTraining certification, often ADA-compliantTraining for social interaction, certification varies
Work environmentAssists individuals with disabilities in public and private settingsProvides comfort and support in hospitals, schools, and nursing homes
Employer and industry usageIndividuals with disabilities, healthcare, public spacesHospitals, schools, therapy programs

Service Dogs are trained to assist individuals with disabilities and are protected by law to accompany their owners in public. Therapy Dogs are trained to provide emotional support and comfort in therapeutic settings. While both roles involve specialized training, Service Dogs have specific legal rights and certifications, whereas Therapy Dogs focus on emotional well-being in controlled environments.

What are service dogs?

Service dogs are specially trained canines that assist individuals with disabilities by performing specific tasks to help them navigate daily life. These tasks may include guiding people who are visually impaired, alerting individuals with hearing loss, pulling a wheelchair, or assisting with medical alerts such as seizures or low blood sugar. Service dogs are protected under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which allows them to accompany their handlers in most public places. They undergo extensive training to ensure good behavior and reliability. Service dogs are distinct from emotional support animals and therapy dogs due to their specialized training and legal rights.

What jobs can you bring your service dog to?

Service dogs are allowed in most workplaces, including offices, retail stores, restaurants, and public transportation, as they assist individuals with disabilities. Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations, and service dogs must be well-trained to work in various environments. However, some restrictions may apply in certain settings for health or safety reasons.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Service Dog handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Service Dog handler, you need a thorough understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and specialized training in service dog protocols, typically supported by certifications from recognized organizations. Familiarity with training tools, positive reinforcement techniques, and relevant legal requirements such as the Americans with Disabilities Act is essential. Patience, consistency, and strong communication skills help build a reliable partnership and ensure effective task performance. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the service dog is well-prepared to support individuals with disabilities and maintain public safety.
What are popular job titles related to Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA? For Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Service Dog jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Service Dog job openings:
Infographic showing various Service Dog job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 56% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,702 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Dog Bather

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Destination Pet rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 48 rated veterinary


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 Bather at Whole Dogz.
Can you handle wet dogs, wagging tails, and the occasional shake-off that soaks your entire shirt-and still smile about it? If you're the type of person who thinks every pup deserves a spa day, we've got the hose, the shampoo, and the job 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 it's belly rubs or brushing, our goal is simple: make pets feel at home and their humans feel at ease.
🎁 Perks & Pay:
Part-time health, mental health, and telehealth benefits
Pay starts at $16-$18.00/hour DOE + tips
📋 Reporting To:
General Manager
💪 What You Should Know:
  • This is an on-your-feet, hands-on, sometimes-sweaty kind of job.

  • Must be able to lift 50+ 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

🐾 What You Bring to the Table:
  • You're a pet fanatic-muddy paws and all.

  • Experience working with animals is a plus but not required-we'll train the right human.

  • You bring calm vibes to even the wildest wash days.

  • Time management, patience, and a positive attitude are a must.

  • Reliable, coachable, and able to work independently or as part of the grooming team.

  • Comfortable using phones, computers, and facility software.

  • Familiarity with animal behavior, coat types, or grooming prep is a bonus.

🐕 What You'll Be Doing (Besides Dodging Shake-Offs and Flying Fur):
  • Bathing dogs of all sizes, breeds, and personalities-with kindness and care.

  • Blow drying, brushing, and prepping pups for their grooming appointments.

  • Trimming nails and brushing teeth (after training).

  • Assisting groomers with whatever they need-holding, fetching, fluffing.

  • Taking dogs outside for potty breaks.

  • Keeping the salon clean, sanitized, and guest ready.

  • Keeping towels washed, stacked, and ready to be immediately unstacked by post-bath zoomies.

  • Notifying the front desk when pups are fresh and ready to go home.

  • Helping with check-ins or phone calls when needed- teamwork makes the groom work.
  • Other duties as assigned

Ready to roll up your sleeves and give every pet a good scrub and a great experience? Bring your love for animals, your sense of humor, and your waterproof shoes. We'll bring the bubbles.
Seeking experienced dog bather scheduled Friday-Monday or Tuesday-Thursday.
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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