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Animal Nursing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Technician

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Animal Care Technician City: West Lafayette Job Summary Join Purdue University and help support the ... Our veterinary nurses play a crucial role in teaching and mentoring students throughout the year ...

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Animal Nursing information

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$5

$17

$22

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.
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What cities are hiring for Animal Nursing jobs?

Cities with the most Animal Nursing job openings:

What states have the most Animal Nursing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Nursing jobs include:

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.

Surgery Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)

Innovetive Petcare

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Innovetive Petcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) - Surgery
Are you a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) looking to grow your skills in a collaborative specialty environment?
Join our team at Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency, where advanced medicine and compassionate care come together.
Position Details
  • Full-time schedule: 4 shifts per week, 10 hours each
  • Focused on our supporting our Surgery Department in anesthesia and treatment
  • Opportunities to collaborate closely with board-certified specialists and cross-train in multiple areas
  • Performing animal nursing procedures, including restraint, postoperative care, catheterization, wound management, and bandaging.
  • Assisting veterinarians with medical and surgical procedures, including preparation, anesthesia administration, surgical monitoring, and recovery care.
  • Performing emergency and critical care nursing tasks such as CPR, fluid resuscitation, oxygen therapy, and blood transfusions.
  • Conducting diagnostic and laboratory procedures, including microbiology, cytology, hematology, serology, and urinalysis.
  • Managing clinical diagnostic tools for blood pressure, electrocardiography, oximetry, and imaging protocols.
  • Collecting and preparing specimens for laboratory evaluation and ensuring proper maintenance of lab equipment.
  • Maintaining accurate medical records in Instinct and utilizing our practice management software effectively.
  • Educating clients about their pet's care, including follow-up treatments and prescribed medications.
  • Ensuring a clean, organized, and safe environment, including maintaining surgical materials and lab equipment.
  • Supporting a team-oriented approach by fostering positive relationships with coworkers and clients.
Education & Licensure:
  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Veterinary Technology from an accredited program.
  • Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) in good standing in Virginia.
Experience:
  • Minimum 1 year of specialty veterinary experience preferred.
Personal Requirements:
  • Ability to handle stressed, ill, or injured animals with care and compassion.
  • Stays calm and professional in medical emergencies.
  • Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset.
  • Physically able to lift animals (over 40 lbs with assistance), stand for extended periods, and work in various physical positions.
Performance Requirements:
  • Competence in all technical and nursing responsibilities, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.
  • Proficiency in managing surgical preparations, pharmacological agents, diagnostic imaging, and lab testing.
  • Skilled in emergency triage and client education.
  • Dedicated to maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient facility.
  • Competitive compensation ($27-30/h)
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance 
  • Tuition Reimbursement (in an accredited Veterinary Technology program)  
  • Retirement: 401(K) with employer match  
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays 
  • Training and career development 
  • Paid license fees and dues 
  • Generous CE allowance 
  • Paid VTS specialization 
Ready for your next Adventure to live your best Veterinary Lifestyle? Apply Today!!!

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