2

Entry Level Kennel Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

... kennel and facility maintenance ... Who You Are • Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level ...

Veterinary Receptionist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

... kennel and facility maintenance. Who You Are • Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level candidates considered. • Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures ...

Entry Level Kennel Assistant information

What is the difference between Entry Level Kennel Assistant vs Pet Care Attendant?

AspectEntry Level Kennel AssistantPet Care Attendant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; basic animal handling skillsHigh school diploma; animal care knowledge
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, veterinary clinicsPet stores, grooming salons, kennels
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, sheltersPet retail, grooming, boarding facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Kennel Assistant and a Pet Care Attendant lies in their typical work environments and specific responsibilities. Kennel Assistants primarily focus on caring for animals in shelters or kennels, while Pet Care Attendants often work in pet stores or grooming salons. Both roles require basic animal handling skills and similar credentials, but their job settings and daily tasks differ slightly.

Can anyone be an entry level kennel assistant?

Entry level kennel assistant positions typically do not require prior experience and are suitable for individuals with basic animal care skills. Employers often look for reliability, the ability to work in a team, and a willingness to perform physical tasks such as cleaning and feeding animals. Some roles may require a high school diploma or equivalent, but specific certifications are usually not mandatory for entry-level roles.

Is being an entry level kennel assistant worth it?

An entry level kennel assistant role provides hands-on experience caring for animals, developing skills in animal handling, cleaning, and basic health monitoring. It can be a good starting point for a career in animal care or veterinary fields, though it typically offers low pay and requires physical effort and flexibility in scheduling.

What skills do you need to be an entry level kennel assistant?

An entry level kennel assistant needs basic animal care skills, such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animals' health. Good communication, physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team are also important. Some positions may require knowledge of safety procedures and the ability to handle animals gently and responsibly.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Kennel Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Kennel Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Kennel Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Kennel Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Kennel Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Kennel Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Kennel Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About Herndon Animal Medical Center

At Herndon Animal Medical Center, we provide thoughtful, compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to the pets and families in our community. We believe strong medicine starts with a strong team - our doctors, technicians, assistants, and client service team work together to create a culture where communication, respect, and patient advocacy matter. We're looking for someone who brings a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and genuine care for the people and animals we serve.

What You'll Do

As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll work alongside our doctors and licensed technicians to deliver excellent patient care and keep the hospital running smoothly. Responsibilities include:

Assisting veterinarians and LVTs during examinations, treatments, and procedures.

Safe and compassionate handling and restraint of dogs and cats.

Performing venipuncture, collecting samples, and running in-house lab work.

Preparing samples for outside reference labs.

Administering vaccines, medications, and treatments under veterinarian supervision.

Assisting with surgical prep, patient monitoring, and recovery.

Taking radiographs and performing other diagnostic support as needed.

Communicating with clients regarding patient care, home instructions, and follow-up.

Maintaining accurate medical records and entering charges.

Keeping exam rooms, treatment areas, and equipment clean, stocked, and ready.

Supporting general kennel and facility maintenance.

Who You Are

Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level candidates considered.

Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures, and basic clinical tasks.

Able to safely and compassionately handle dogs and cats.

Clear communicator with clients, doctors, and teammates.

Organized and calm in a fast-paced hospital environment.

Reliable, punctual, and accountable.

Eager to learn and grow professionally.

Comfortable with computers and practice management software.

Able to lift and restrain pets as needed.

What We Offer

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.

Health, dental, and vision insurance.

401(k) with company match.

Paid time off and paid holidays.

Continuing education opportunities.

Uniform allowance.

Employee pet care discounts.

Training and professional development opportunities.

A supportive team environment focused on compassionate care and excellent client service.

Benefits may vary based on full-time or part-time status.

Schedule: Full-time & Part- time positions available; No nights or Weekends. 

Location: In person - Herndon, VA


NVA logo

About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US