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Large Animal Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Springfield, MO

... Veterinary Assistant ! Schedule: Full-time opportunity with rotating Saturdays. About Us ... VCA Parkcrest Animal Hospital and Pet Lodge is a four-doctor animal hospital offering preventative ...

... Veterinary Assistant ! Schedule: Full-time opportunity with rotating Saturdays. About Us ... VCA Parkcrest Animal Hospital and Pet Lodge is a four-doctor animal hospital offering preventative ...

We also offer a large play yard where every dog gets daily playtime, plus boarding runs with both ... Have previous animal-care, kennel, veterinary, or customer service experience (a plus, but not ...

Large Animal Veterinary Assistant information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do large animal veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for large animal veterinary assistant in Springfield, MO is $15.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $17.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a large animal veterinary assistant?

A Large Animal Veterinary Assistant helps veterinarians care for livestock and farm animals such as horses, cattle, pigs, and sheep. Their duties include restraining animals, assisting with medical procedures, cleaning equipment, administering medications, and handling routine care tasks. They often work on farms, ranches, or veterinary clinics, sometimes traveling to different locations. This role requires physical stamina, basic animal care knowledge, and strong communication skills to assist both vets and animal owners.

What does a large animal veterinary assistant do?

A typical day for a Large Animal Veterinary Assistant involves assisting veterinarians during farm visits or in-clinic procedures, restraining animals safely, preparing and cleaning equipment, and keeping detailed records. You may also help with administering medications, collecting samples, and providing basic animal care such as feeding or monitoring recovery. The role often requires working outdoors and traveling to farms or ranches, sometimes under challenging weather conditions. Teamwork is crucial, as you’ll routinely coordinate with veterinarians, technicians, and animal owners. This varied and hands-on work environment offers valuable experience and exposure to a wide range of large animal care practices.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a large animal veterinary assistant?

To thrive as a Large Animal Veterinary Assistant, you need practical animal handling skills, basic knowledge of animal health, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training or experience with large animals is highly valued. Familiarity with veterinary medical equipment, safety protocols, and animal restraint techniques is important, and some employers may require certification in animal care or first aid. Strong communication, teamwork, and physical stamina are essential soft skills for supporting veterinarians and interacting with clients. These skills ensure safe, efficient care for animals, effective team collaboration, and positive client experiences in demanding agricultural or clinical environments.

How much does a large animal veterinary assistant make?

The average salary for a large animal veterinary assistant is around $25,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Many assistants work in farm or clinic environments and may require knowledge of animal handling and basic medical procedures.

Where do large animal veterinary assistants make the most money?

Large animal veterinary assistants tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for agricultural or livestock services, such as rural areas with extensive farming operations. States or areas with a strong agricultural industry often offer better compensation due to the specialized nature of the work and the need for experienced assistants. Salary can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the size of the practice or farm.

What are popular job titles related to Large Animal Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MO?

For Large Animal Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Large Animal Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Large Animal Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Large Animal Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Large Animal Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Large Animal Veterinary Assistant job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,619 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

VCA Animal Hospitals

Springfield, MO • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 53 rated veterinary


Job description

Address: 700 West Republic Road Springfield, MO 65807
VCA Parkcrest Animal Hospital and Pet Lodge is excited to expand our team and is currently seeking a Veterinary Assistant!
Schedule: Full-time opportunity with rotating Saturdays.
About Us: VCA Parkcrest Animal Hospital and Pet Lodge is a four-doctor animal hospital offering preventative and routine care, surgery, and dental procedures. We pride ourselves on maintaining a supportive, team-oriented culture where learning and professional development are encouraged.
Key Responsibilities: In this role, you will support our veterinarians and technicians in delivering exceptional care to our patients and outstanding service to our clients. Your responsibilities will include assisting with examinations, treatments, and surgeries, as well as maintaining accurate patient records and ensuring a clean and safe environment.
  • Assist veterinarians and technicians during examinations and surgical procedures.
  • Prepare and maintain examination and treatment areas.
  • Restrain animals safely and humanely for procedures.
  • Administer medications and treatments as directed.
  • Collect and process laboratory samples.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed patient records.
  • Educate clients on general pet care and post-operative instructions.
  • Ensure cleanliness and sanitation of all hospital areas.

VCA offers a comprehensive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and professional development of its associates. Key benefits include:
  • Mental Health: Access to the Lyra mental health platform, including up to 12 therapy sessions per year, guided self-care, and meditation resources.
  • Full Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA/FSA options, as well as fertility benefits.
  • Paid Time Off: Paid vacation, sick, parental, and bereavement leave.
  • Financial Support: 100% employer-paid short-term and long-
  • Protection: Access to the Better Together Fund for crisis support in qualifying situations.
  • Sponsorships: Penn Foster and VTNE test prep sponsorships, as well as VTNE prep courses.
  • Programs: Leadership development and mentorship programs.
  • Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan with increasing employer contribution.
  • Full Coverage: 100% employer-paid professional liability coverage and life insurance coverage equal to one year's salary.
  • Pet Care Perks: Generous pet care discounts and VIP programs.
  • Advisory Services: Student loan advisory services, tools, and resources.
  • Transfer Opportunities: Nationwide hospital transfer opportunities.

Compensation: The starting range for Veterinary Assistants is $15 - 20/hr and is determined by license, skill set, and years of experience in the field.
Qualifications:
  • 1+ years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant
  • Confident in restraint, medical records, and running diagnostic labs.

Your Next Career Step Starts Here
Whether you're ready to advance your career or looking for a hospital that believes in mentorship and growth, VCA Animal Hospitals is the place for you. We can't wait to meet you-apply today!
If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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