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Working Animals Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

OR · On-site

Thank you for your interest in working at Mercy For Animals! Please follow the process below to submit a general application of interest, and we will keep your resume and cover letter in our database ...

Veterinary Assistant

Canby, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Genuinely enjoys working with animals and is able to deal with them even when they are stressed, ill or in pain. Prefer previous experience, but not required. Ability to meet the physical demands of ...

Veterinary Technician

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$28.58 - $34.77/hr

Through outreach and education, we are working together to prevent animals from needing our services in the first place, and just as significant, providing excellent care and shelter to the animals ...

Through outreach and education, we are working together to prevent animals from needing our services in the first place, and just as significant, providing excellent care and shelter to the animals ...

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Working Animals information

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with service or therapy animals, and how can these be managed?

Professionals who work with service or therapy animals often encounter challenges such as maintaining the animals’ training and behavior standards, ensuring their health and well-being, and fostering effective communication between the animal and handler. It’s also common to navigate public misconceptions and access issues when bringing animals into various environments. Managing these challenges involves ongoing education, regular health check-ups for the animals, and strong teamwork with both human and animal partners. Support from experienced colleagues and continuing professional development are also valuable in overcoming these daily obstacles.

What is the difference between Working Animals vs Search and Rescue Dogs?

AspectWorking AnimalsSearch and Rescue Dogs
Required CredentialsBasic training, certifications vary by taskAdvanced training, certifications in search and rescue techniques
Work EnvironmentFarms, farms, urban areas, specialized environmentsDisaster sites, wilderness, urban search zones
Employer & IndustryAgriculture, transportation, service industriesEmergency services, rescue organizations

Working Animals encompass a broad range of animals trained for various tasks across industries, while Search and Rescue Dogs are specifically trained to locate missing persons in disaster or wilderness scenarios. Both roles require specialized training, but Search and Rescue Dogs undergo more intensive certification processes and operate primarily in emergency environments. Understanding these differences helps clarify their unique functions and training requirements.

What is a working animal?

Working animals are animals that have been trained to perform specific tasks or services for humans. These roles can include herding livestock, pulling carts or plows, providing transportation, assisting people with disabilities, performing search and rescue, or even detecting drugs and explosives. Common examples include horses, dogs, donkeys, and oxen. Working animals have played a significant role in human societies throughout history and continue to be important in many industries and communities today.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to work with working animals?

To excel as an animal trainer for working animals, you need a strong understanding of animal behavior, training techniques, and relevant animal care practices, often supported by a high school diploma or animal science coursework. Familiarity with positive reinforcement tools, clicker training systems, and animal handling equipment is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and observational skills are crucial soft skills that help build trust and ensure effective training. These competencies are vital for ensuring the safety, well-being, and optimal performance of working animals in professional settings.
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Working Animals jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Working Animals job openings:
Infographic showing various Working Animals job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

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Re-posted 12 days ago


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Thank you for your interest in working at Mercy For Animals! 

Please follow the process below to submit a general application of interest, and we will keep your resume and cover letter in our database for any future positions. 

In the interim you may find these links helpful:

  • Take Action! Click here for more information on ways to get involved now!
  • Internship opportunities with Mercy For Animals
  • Tips for getting involved in animal rights: How to Get Started

* Please note that all interview requests will come from an official Mercy For Animals email address. *