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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.

Is it hard to be an entry level kennel assistant?

Being an entry level kennel assistant typically involves physical tasks such as cleaning, feeding, and caring for animals, which can be physically demanding but usually do not require prior experience. The role often requires attention to detail, basic animal handling skills, and the ability to work in a team, with training provided on the job.

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

Entry level kennel assistants typically do not need formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. Basic skills in animal care, cleanliness, and physical stamina are important, and some employers may provide on-the-job training or prefer candidates with prior experience working with animals.

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

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


National Veterinary Associates rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 52 rated veterinary


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


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About National Veterinary Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

National Veterinary Associates, based in Agoura Hills, CA, US, is a leading provider in the veterinary healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it operates independently owned veterinary practices across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With a passion for pet health, National Veterinary Associates supports over 1000 veterinary hospitals and pet resort entities. Though their website, nva.com, doesn't explicitly describe their mission, it is evident that their aim is to empower veterinarians with the resources they need to provide high-quality, compassionate pet care services. They have made remarkable strides in advancing veterinary medicine, which is a testament to their industry influence and commitment.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

Year founded

1996