Pet Rescue Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world where animal welfare is gaining increasing attention, the role of a Pet Rescue Coordinator has never been more vital.

As awareness grows and compassion deepens, the demand for dedicated individuals who can organize, facilitate, and oversee our pet rescue operations escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Pet Rescue Coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the compassionate world of pet rescue,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Pet Rescue Coordinator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Pet Rescue Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Pet Rescue Coordinators play a critical role in animal welfare organizations, coordinating efforts to rescue and rehabilitate pets, liaising with various stakeholders, and ensuring the animals’ wellbeing and safety.

The duties and responsibilities of a Pet Rescue Coordinator include:

• Coordinating rescue operations for pets in distress
• Evaluating the health and behavioral conditions of rescued pets and coordinating necessary medical care
• Working closely with veterinarians and animal behaviorists to address the needs of rescued pets
• Coordinating pet placement efforts, including foster care and adoption processes
• Developing relationships with local shelters, pet foster homes, and adoption agencies
• Managing records of all rescued pets, their health status, and placement status
• Conducting public awareness campaigns about pet welfare and rescue missions
• Organizing fundraising events to support rescue operations and pet care
• Training and supervising volunteers involved in pet rescue operations
• Ensuring all operations comply with local, state, and federal animal welfare laws and regulations

 

Pet Rescue Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Pet Rescue Coordinator to join our team.

The role involves coordinating the rescue, rehabilitation, and re-homing of pets in need, while also working closely with volunteers and potential adoptive families.

The successful candidate will have a deep love for animals, excellent organizational skills, and a strong commitment to animal welfare.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate rescue operations for pets in danger or in need
• Assess the health and wellbeing of rescued pets
• Work closely with veterinarians to ensure pets receive required care
• Coordinate training and rehabilitation programs for rescued pets
• Manage the pet adoption process, ensuring pets are matched with suitable homes
• Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers
• Organize and participate in community outreach and educational programs
• Maintain detailed records of rescue operations and pet placements
• Collaborate with other animal welfare organizations
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local, state, and national animal welfare laws and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in animal care or rescue
• Demonstrated knowledge of animal behavior and welfare
• Experience managing volunteers or teams
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work well under pressure and handle stressful situations
• Must hold a valid driver’s license
• Physical fitness to handle large or unruly animals
• High School diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, or a related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of animals

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pet Rescue Coordinator
• Work Environment: This role involves both office work and field work, including visits to animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and rescue sites. The role may also involve handling animals of various sizes and temperaments.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Animal Welfare.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pet Rescue Coordinator Do?

Pet Rescue Coordinators typically work for animal shelters, rescue organizations, or animal welfare groups.

Their primary role is to facilitate the rescue and rehabilitation of pets in need.

They are responsible for assessing the condition of animals brought to the shelter and coordinating their immediate care.

This often includes medical attention, grooming, and feeding, to help the animal recover.

Pet Rescue Coordinators work closely with veterinarians and animal care staff to develop and implement rehabilitation plans.

They also monitor the animals’ progress, adjusting the plans as needed.

They are also in charge of promoting the adoption of the rescued animals.

This includes coordinating adoption events, creating adoption profiles for the animals, and educating potential adopters on the animals’ needs and requirements.

Furthermore, they liaise with other rescue organizations, animal control officers, and community members to identify animals in need of rescue.

They may also be involved in the rescue operations themselves.

Pet Rescue Coordinators often also provide support to pet owners experiencing difficulties, offering advice on pet care and behavior issues, and directing them to resources as needed.

They also play a role in the prevention of animal abandonment and abuse through community education and awareness campaigns.

 

Pet Rescue Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A Pet Rescue Coordinator should possess a unique blend of skills and qualifications that enable them to efficiently care for animals and manage rescue operations, such as:

• Strong empathy for animals and a deep understanding of animal behavior, especially for animals under stress or in trauma.
• Outstanding organizational skills to coordinate various aspects of pet rescue, including veterinary care, foster placements, and adoption processes.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise between volunteers, potential adopters, donors, and veterinary professionals, as well as to raise public awareness about the rescue center and its needs.
• Problem-solving skills to handle emergency situations or unforeseen complications with efficiency and effectiveness.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively manage volunteers and staff, fostering a positive, collaborative environment.
• Knowledge of animal welfare laws and regulations, ensuring that all rescue operations comply with legal standards.
• Physical ability to handle various animals, potentially including large or aggressive ones, while ensuring both their safety and yours.
• Patience and resilience to deal with emotionally challenging situations, such as abused or severely ill animals.

 

Pet Rescue Coordinator Experience Requirements

Pet Rescue Coordinators are generally required to have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in animal care or animal rescue, often gained through volunteering or working part-time in animal shelters, animal rescues, or veterinary clinics.

Candidates with a background in animal behavior or veterinary medicine may have an advantage.

Some may have gained experience in roles such as Animal Caretaker, Animal Control Officer, Veterinary Technician, or similar roles.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in coordinating rescue efforts, animal care, and have a solid understanding of local, state, and federal regulations relating to animal welfare.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have some managerial experience, such as overseeing volunteer teams, managing shelter operations, or coordinating with other animal welfare organizations.

These professionals are often ready for more senior or leadership positions within animal rescue organizations.

Additionally, practical experience with a variety of animal species, knowledge of basic animal health care, and proficiency in communication and organization are often essential for this role.

 

Pet Rescue Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

Pet Rescue Coordinators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, although some positions may require a bachelor’s degree in animal science, veterinary medicine, or a related field.

They need to have extensive knowledge about animals, their behaviors, and their needs.

This knowledge can be acquired through formal education or relevant experience such as volunteering or working at animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or pet shops.

Pet Rescue Coordinators must also be familiar with animal welfare laws and regulations.

Some positions may require certification in animal welfare or shelter management.

First aid and CPR certifications for animals, while not always mandatory, are highly beneficial in this role.

Many organizations favor Pet Rescue Coordinators who have undergone specific training on animal rescue operations, which may include disaster response training, crisis management, and training on how to handle different types of animals, including wild or exotic species.

Being a Pet Rescue Coordinator also requires strong communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills to effectively work with volunteers, foster homes, veterinarians, and potential adopters.

Hence, any courses or training that enhance these abilities can be valuable.

The job typically involves lifelong learning, as animal rescue practices and standards continue to evolve.

Therefore, a commitment to ongoing professional development and learning is essential.

 

Pet Rescue Coordinator Salary Expectations

A Pet Rescue Coordinator makes an average salary of $38,000 (USD) per year.

This salary may change based on factors like level of experience, the geographical location, and the funding of the rescue organization.

 

Pet Rescue Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pet Rescue Coordinator need?

A Pet Rescue Coordinator should possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills as they frequently interact with potential adopters, volunteers, and animal care staff.

They need strong organizational skills to manage the coordination of rescue operations and the tracking of animals.

Also, they should be compassionate and patient, with a deep understanding of animal behavior and needs.

 

Do Pet Rescue Coordinators need a specific degree?

Although a specific degree is not required, a background in animal sciences, veterinary studies, or a related field can be beneficial.

Additionally, experience in animal care or rescue is often preferred.

Pet Rescue Coordinators should also be knowledgeable about local and state animal welfare laws and regulations.

 

What should you look for in a Pet Rescue Coordinator resume?

When reviewing a Pet Rescue Coordinator’s resume, you should look for experience in animal care or rescue, as well as any relevant education in animal sciences or a related field.

The candidate should also demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills.

Any experience in volunteer coordination or management could also be valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Pet Rescue Coordinator?

A good Pet Rescue Coordinator is compassionate, patient, and dedicated to animal welfare.

They should have excellent organizational skills, as they are often tasked with coordinating rescue efforts and managing schedules.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important for interacting with staff, volunteers, and potential adopters.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Pet Rescue Coordinator?

The difficulty in hiring a Pet Rescue Coordinator depends on the specific qualifications and experiences you’re looking for.

While there might be many candidates passionate about animal welfare, finding one with the specific blend of organizational, communication, and animal care skills might require a thorough search and selection process.

It’s crucial to ensure the candidate understands the emotional and physical demands of the job and is willing to commit to them.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the heart of what it truly means to be a Pet Rescue Coordinator.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about cuddling cute animals.

It’s about sculpting a brighter future, one rescued pet at a time.

Armed with our handy Pet Rescue Coordinator job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why end your journey here?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop to precision-crafted listings or polishing your resume to shine.

Always remember:

Every rescued pet is a part of a larger mission.

Let’s create that future. Together.