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Animal Nursing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Pennsylvania

Our large animal veterinary nurses play a vital role in the patient care team, provide exceptional care for equine patients as well as a variety of other farm animal species. We offer both inpatient ...

University of Pennsylvania

Our large animal veterinary nurses play a vital role in the patient care team, provide exceptional care for equine patients as well as a variety of other farm animal species. We offer both inpatient ...

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How much do animal nursing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal nursing in the United States is $17.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Nurse, you need a solid background in animal care, knowledge of veterinary procedures, and a relevant qualification such as a diploma in veterinary nursing. Familiarity with veterinary practice management systems, laboratory equipment, and animal monitoring tools is typically required. Strong communication, compassion, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for supporting both animals and their owners. These competencies ensure high-quality patient care, efficient clinic operations, and positive client relationships in veterinary settings.

What is the difference between Animal Nursing vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal NursingVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsCertification or diploma in animal careLicensed or certified veterinary technician credential
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, pet hospitalsVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in pet care and animal sheltersStandard in veterinary medicine and animal healthcare
Job ResponsibilitiesBasic animal care, feeding, groomingAssisting veterinarians, performing medical procedures

Animal Nursing typically involves providing basic care and support for animals in various settings, often without requiring formal licensing. Veterinary Technicians, however, are licensed professionals with specialized training, performing medical tasks under veterinarian supervision. Both roles are essential in animal healthcare, but Veterinary Technicians have a broader scope of practice and formal credentials.

What are some common challenges faced by animal nurses in a veterinary clinic setting?

Animal nurses often encounter challenges such as managing the emotional stress of caring for sick or injured animals, handling unpredictable animal behavior, and balancing a fast-paced workload with the need for detailed record-keeping. Working in a team with veterinarians and other support staff requires clear communication, especially during emergencies or surgical procedures. Despite these challenges, animal nurses find the role rewarding as they directly contribute to animal health and client satisfaction.

What is animal nursing?

Animal nursing refers to the care and medical support provided to animals, typically under the supervision of a veterinarian. Animal nurses, often called veterinary nurses or veterinary technicians, assist with clinical procedures, administer medications, monitor patient recovery, and provide comfort to sick or injured animals. They play a crucial role in maintaining animal welfare within veterinary practices, animal hospitals, or shelters. Their responsibilities can also include client education and laboratory work.
More about Animal Nursing jobs
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Animal Nursing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Nursing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,833 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Veterinary Technician Assistant - Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital

Lakefield Veterinary Group

Inver Grove Heights, MN • On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Veterinary Technician Assistant - Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital

Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital is a fun, fast paced, progressive practice, providing general treatment and specialty services such as extensive canine reproductive services, advanced surgery, acupuncture and aging pet care. We support our mission, "Dedicated to your extraordinary pets through compassionate, collaborative medicine", by understanding our patients' needs and clients' expectations, finding appropriate solutions and delivering outstanding services and care.

Do you seek to gain experience in the field of Veterinary Medicine? If so, we are seeking a caring, compassionate Veterinary Technician Assistant to join our collaborative team.

Currently, we have part-time or full-time positions with varied work schedules available. VTA responsibilities are a blend of veterinary support, animal care and hospital cleanliness and include:

  • Supporting our team with pet restraint, animal nursing care and patient discharge
  • Perform x-rays, assists with blood draws and other basic procedures after training
  • Providing outstanding customer service and communication to our clients and care for our patients
  • Cleaning cages, feeding animals, walking dogs, bathing animals, giving oral medications
  • Weekend animal care
  • Maintaining sterile conditions throughout the hospital performing routine and in-depth cleaning
  • Laundering towels and gowns, cleaning surgical instruments
  • Checks in and stocks surgical supplies, medicines and pet food

The qualified candidate meets the following requirements:

  • Able to lift 50 pounds as well as walk and restrain animals
  • Able to work standing and/or walking for majority of work shift
  • Clear, professional communication skills to interact with team and with patients
  • Detail-oriented, organized, focused and able to follow procedures
  • Compassion for animals
  • Reliable and able to work rotating weekends to support boarding animals and Saturday hospital hours

Apply