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Assistant Vet Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Value Vet

Veterinary Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Value Vet is seeking experienced Animal Care Experts to join our Pet-Friendly team to our 6 Nashville location. We are in search of a friendly team member that can bring their Veterinary Assistant ...

Value Vet

Veterinary Assistant - Tennessee

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Value Vet is seeking experienced Animal Care Experts to join our Pet-Friendly team to our 6 Nashville location. We are in search of a friendly team member that can bring their Veterinary Assistant ...

Value Vet

Veterinary Assistant - Tennessee

Nashville, TN

$15.25 - $19/hr

Value Vet is seeking experienced Animal Care Experts to join our Pet-Friendly team to our 6 Nashville location. We are in search of a friendly team member that can bring their Veterinary Assistant ...

SynergyVet LLC

Vet Assistant/Technician

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Must have at least 2-years previous experience as a Veterinary Technician or Assistant. * Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills. * Must be compassionate and sympathetic and be ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

All Vet Assistants receive a generous benefits package including 401(k) participation, paid time off and Optimum Wellness Plans for your pets. In addition, medical, vision, dental, life and ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

$15 - $18.39/hr

All Vet Assistants receive a generous benefits package including 401(k) participation, paid time off and Optimum Wellness Plans for your pets. In addition, medical, vision, dental, life and ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

All Vet Assistants receive a generous benefits package including 401(k) participation, paid time off and Optimum Wellness Plans for your pets. In addition, medical, vision, dental, life and ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

All Vet Assistants receive a generous benefits package including 401(k) participation, paid time off and Optimum Wellness Plans for your pets. In addition, medical, vision, dental, life and ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Madison, TN

$15.19 - $19.41/hr

All Vet Assistants receive a generous benefits package including 401(k) participation, paid time off and Optimum Wellness Plans for your pets. In addition, medical, vision, dental, life and ...

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All JobsVet JobsAssistant Vet JobsAssistant Vet Jobs in Tennessee

Assistant Vet information

See Tennessee salary details

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How much do assistant vet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant vet in Tennessee is $15.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant vet?

Assistant vets, also known as veterinary assistants, are professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal care settings such as clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Their duties often include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, sterilizing equipment, cleaning examination and operating rooms, and assisting with basic animal care procedures. They play an essential role in ensuring the smooth operation of veterinary practices and the well-being of animals under veterinary care. Veterinary assistants typically do not perform medical diagnoses or surgeries, but they are integral to the daily functioning of animal healthcare teams.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Vet, you need a solid understanding of animal care, basic veterinary procedures, and usually a relevant certification or diploma in veterinary assistance. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and safe animal handling techniques is often required. Strong communication, empathy, and attention to detail help you interact effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills and qualities ensure the safety, well-being, and efficient care of animal patients while supporting veterinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant vets, and how can they prepare for them?

Assistant Vets often encounter fast-paced environments where multitasking and attention to detail are essential. A common challenge is managing the emotional aspects of caring for sick or injured animals while supporting pet owners with compassion. Additionally, Assistant Vets regularly assist with restraining animals, cleaning facilities, and preparing for procedures, which can be physically demanding. Preparing by developing strong communication skills, learning proper animal handling techniques, and maintaining resilience can help candidates thrive in this role.

What is the difference between Assistant Vet vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAssistant VetVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians in clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersWork alongside veterinarians, perform technical tasks, assist in surgeries
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in veterinary clinics, animal sheltersStandard role in veterinary practices, animal hospitals, research facilities

Veterinary technicians typically have formal education and certification, performing more technical tasks than assistant vets, who usually receive on-the-job training. Both roles support veterinarians in animal care, but veterinary technicians have a broader scope of practice and technical responsibilities.

Can I be an assistant vet with no experience?

Becoming an assistant vet typically requires some knowledge of animal care and basic veterinary procedures, but many entry-level positions are available to those without prior experience. On-the-job training is common, and relevant skills such as communication and animal handling can improve your chances of securing a position. Certification or coursework in animal care can also be beneficial for advancement.

Is it hard to get a job as a veterinary assistant?

Getting a job as a veterinary assistant can be competitive, but entry-level positions are often available for those with basic animal care skills and a high school diploma. Relevant experience, certifications such as veterinary assistant training, and a willingness to learn can improve job prospects.

What can you do as a veterinary assistant?

A veterinary assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians by handling tasks such as cleaning and sterilizing equipment, restraining animals during exams and procedures, administering basic treatments, and maintaining medical records. They often work in animal care environments and may need to follow safety protocols and basic training in animal handling. The role typically requires good communication skills and a compassionate attitude toward animals and clients.

What are the most commonly searched types of Vet jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Vet jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Vet jobs in Tennessee?

For Assistant Vet jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Vet jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Vet jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Assistant Vet jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Assistant Vet job openings:

Assistant Vet jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Vet job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,547 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant at Bellshire Family Vet

Bellshire Family Vet

Nashville, TN • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Practice
You'd do anything for your family...at Bellshire Family Vet, we feel the same!
More about the Role
The Veterinary Assistant assists the veterinarians and technicians with patient care and treatment, monitors hospitalized pets, maintains inventory, prepares prescriptions, performs routine in-house laboratory work, educates clients regarding veterinary care and procedures, and assists with surgical procedures.
4 day work week with regularly scheduled days off.
The ideal candidate will have previous Veterinary Assistant experience (required) with experience operating Idexx machines, Imagyst, and dental radiographs a plus!
Competencies
  • Patience & Compassion: Remaining professional while still making teammates, clients, and patients feel as comfortable as possible regardless of the situation or challenges presented. Responding quickly and calmly to crisis while maintaining a high standard of patient care.
  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Carefully coordinating actions with veterinarians and practice team members. Providing feedback appropriately and in a timely manner. Quickly incorporating feedback to ensure positive results. Sharing ideas and being open to other's ideas.
  • Communicating: Conveying instructions to clients and teammates to ensure successful patient care.
  • Active Listening: Following the instructions of veterinarians and sometimes patient owners. Picking up the needs of veterinarians and teammates based on prior experiences and feedback.
  • Organization Skills: Clear tracking of lab specimens, medications, patient instructions, workflow, and other job-related items while managing multiple patients and clients.
  • Client Satisfaction: Ensuring all activities and interactions result in the highest level of client satisfaction.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Assist veterinarians in the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery and other tasks as needed.
  • Assist veterinarians in outpatient exams by taking histories, vital signs, and weights, as well as providing client education.
  • Prepare patients for surgery and monitor vital signs of the patient during surgery.
  • Obtain blood, stool, and other samples; perform in-hospital laboratory testing and prepare specimens for outside laboratories.
  • Take, develop, and maintain radiographs following proper safety procedures.
  • Provide basic animal handling and restrain animals during exams.
  • Administer and monitor medications, anesthesia, vaccines, and treatments at the discretion of the veterinarian.
  • Clean and straighten exam rooms, treatment, and lab areas; restock exam rooms with supplies. Assist other team members to keep the public areas of the practice clean; clean and maintain all medical equipment.
  • Demonstrate warmth, courtesy and professionalism in all interactions with clients; exercise compassion and care in all interactions with patients.
  • Communicate with veterinarians and practice team members including client discussions, patient plans, client concerns, etc.
  • Any other duties as assigned.

Requirements/Qualifications
  • Ability to work on weekends as required
  • Previous veterinary experience preferred
  • Ability to lift patients and carry equipment up to 25 pounds; ability to lift patients or carry equipment over 25 pounds with assistance
  • Practice OSHA safety techniques including proper PPE
  • Basic math and the ability to calculate medication dosages
  • Basic computer skills, familiarity with MS office applications, etc.
  • Strong communication skills to ensure patient safety

Benefits Offered
  • Paid time off
  • Health insurance; dental insurance; vision insurance
  • Retirement benefits or accounts
  • Bonus incentive
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Career and professional development
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Benefits offered may vary depending on full or part time employment status according to company policy.
Pay Range
USD $16.00 - USD $18.00 /Hr.

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