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Working With Animals Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Dog Groomer

Henrico, VA · On-site

$50 - $300/day

... etc.) of the animals * Assess and communicate any health issues or concerns to pet owners ... Comfortable working with dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments * Flexibility: our Resort is ...

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Dog Groomer

Henrico, VA · On-site

$50 - $300/day

... etc.) of the animals * Assess and communicate any health issues or concerns to pet owners ... Comfortable working with dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments * Flexibility: our Resort is ...

$15 - $20/hr

If you are a self-starter with a positive attitude and enjoy working with animals, this position is perfect for you. Salary and Benefits: We offer a competitive salary range of $15 to $20 hourly ...

Pet Groomer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with animals and providing top-notch grooming services. Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year grooming experience is required with knowledge of breed ...

Pet Groomer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with animals and providing top-notch grooming services. Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year grooming experience is required with knowledge of breed ...

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Working With Animals information

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$11

$21

$31

How much do working with animals jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for working with animals in Virginia is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $24.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced when working with animals in a professional setting?

Professionals working with animals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable animal behavior, physically demanding tasks, and emotional stress from caring for sick or injured animals. Adapting quickly to each animal's unique temperament and needs is essential, as is following strict safety and hygiene protocols. Teamwork is also crucial, as animal care roles frequently require close collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and other specialists to ensure the well-being of the animals.

What is the difference between Working With Animals vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectWorking With AnimalsAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification neededCertification or training often preferred or required
Work EnvironmentZoos, shelters, farms, pet storesVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal welfare organizations, pet industry, farmsVeterinary hospitals, research facilities, shelters
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles involving animalsDetails about animal care responsibilities and qualifications

Working With Animals is a broad term covering various roles involving animal interaction, while Animal Care Technicians focus specifically on providing medical and daily care in veterinary or shelter settings. Both roles require a passion for animals, but Animal Care Technicians often need specific training or certification. The choice depends on your desired work environment and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career working with animals?

To thrive in a career working with animals, you generally need knowledge of animal behavior, basic animal care, and, for some roles, certifications or degrees in animal science or veterinary technology. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, record-keeping systems, and sometimes first aid or animal CPR certification is typical. Compassion, patience, and strong observational skills are crucial soft skills for ensuring animal welfare and effective communication with team members or pet owners. These skills and qualities are vital for promoting animal health, safety, and positive human-animal interactions in various professional settings.

What does working with animals involve?

Working with animals can include a variety of roles such as veterinary care, animal training, animal shelter work, wildlife conservation, and research. Professionals in this field may care for animals' health, train them for specific tasks, or work to conserve endangered species. The work environment can range from clinics and zoos to laboratories and the wild. Responsibilities often include feeding, cleaning, monitoring behavior, and sometimes educating the public about animal welfare. The job can be physically demanding but is often rewarding for animal lovers.
What are popular job titles related to Working With Animals jobs in Virginia? For Working With Animals jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Working With Animals jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Working With Animals jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Working With Animals jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Working With Animals job openings:
Infographic showing various Working With Animals job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,757 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Practice Partners

Centreville, VA • On-site

$16 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Veterinary Practice Partners rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 176 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Veterinary Assistant
Caring Hand Centreville is hiring a full-time Vet Assistant to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each animal receives the best possible care during their stay with us. If you are enthusiastic, reliable, and excited about helping us maintain our high standards of animal care and customer service, we would love to hear from you!
What to ExpectAs you join our mission to create a better world for animals and the people who love them, expect to be supported in your work and home life with:
  • All the benefits you deserve-medical, dental, vision, retirement-plus an employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.
  • Paid time off. Catch your breath with paid holidays and PTO.

Salary: $16-$24/hr based on experience and skillset.
Schedule: Will work full-time hours Monday-Friday 7:30 AM- 8PM, Rotating Saturdays 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist veterinarians and vet techs during examinations, treatments, and surgeries
  • Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately
  • Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment and surfaces
  • Perform basic laboratory tests, such as collecting blood, urine, and stool samples
  • Administer medications and vaccinations under the supervision of a veterinarian
  • Feed, bathe, and exercise animals as needed
  • Maintain accurate medical records
  • Communicate with pet owners about their pets' care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits
  • Clean and maintain the clinic, including stocking supplies and ensuring a safe and sanitary environment

Qualifications:
  • Previous experience working with animals in a veterinary setting.
  • Technical know-how in areas such as disinfection, administering medication, and using diagnostic equipment.
  • Physical ability to handle animals safely and compassionately.

About Caring Hands CentrevilleCaring Hands Animal Hospitals are large, well-equipped, AAHA-accredited facilities. We offer convenient hours six days a week and have an open-door policy to provide excellent service to our clients. Our full-service hospitals offer state of the art care for our patients including computerized patient records, digital radiography, and in-house laboratory.
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