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Relief Veterinary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Modern Animal

Relief Veterinary Assistant

Los Angeles, CA

$220 - $294.25/hr

We're passionate about animal health and are looking for talented Relief Veterinary Assistants to support our dedicated team in Los Angeles! Location: Relief shifts are available at our Los Angeles ...

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Modern Animal

Relief Veterinary Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$220 - $294.25/hr

We're passionate about animal health and are looking for talented Relief Veterinary Assistants to support our dedicated team in Los Angeles! Location: Relief shifts are available at our Los Angeles ...

Petfolk

Relief Veterinary Technician

Windermere, FL · On-site

$28/hr

Now, we're looking for experienced Relief Veterinary Technicians and Relief Veterinary Assistants to join our community. Whether you're looking to pick up a few extra shifts or explore different ...

Petfolk

Relief Veterinary Technician

Johns Creek, GA · On-site

$28/hr

Now, we're looking for experienced Relief Veterinary Technicians and Relief Veterinary Assistants to join our community. Whether you're looking to pick up a few extra shifts or explore different ...

Petfolk

Relief Veterinary Technician

Orlando, FL · On-site

$28/hr

Now, we're looking for experienced Relief Veterinary Technicians and Relief Veterinary Assistants to join our community. Whether you're looking to pick up a few extra shifts or explore different ...

Petfolk

Relief Veterinary Technician

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$28/hr

Now, we're looking for experienced Relief Veterinary Technicians and Relief Veterinary Assistants to join our community. Whether you're looking to pick up a few extra shifts or explore different ...

Petfolk

Relief Veterinary Technician

Oviedo, FL · On-site

$28/hr

Now, we're looking for experienced Relief Veterinary Technicians and Relief Veterinary Assistants to join our community. Whether you're looking to pick up a few extra shifts or explore different ...

Petfolk

Relief Veterinary Technician

Johns Creek, GA · On-site

$28/hr

Now, we're looking for experienced Relief Veterinary Technicians and Relief Veterinary Assistants to join our community. Whether you're looking to pick up a few extra shifts or explore different ...

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Relief Veterinary Assistant information

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$10

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$23

How much do relief veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for relief veterinary assistant in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Relief Veterinary Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Relief Veterinary Assistant, you need a solid understanding of animal care, handling, and basic veterinary procedures, often supported by on-the-job training or a veterinary assistant certificate. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and proper sanitation protocols is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and compassion are vital soft skills for effectively supporting both veterinarians and pet owners in dynamic environments. These skills ensure the efficient delivery of quality animal care and smooth integration into various veterinary teams on short notice.

What is a Relief Veterinary Assistant?

A Relief Veterinary Assistant is a trained professional who temporarily fills in at veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or shelters when regular staff are unavailable due to vacations, illness, or staffing shortages. They perform a variety of tasks, such as assisting veterinarians during exams and procedures, caring for animals, maintaining clean facilities, and communicating with pet owners. Relief Veterinary Assistants provide flexibility for clinics and help ensure consistent care for animal patients. Their role is essential for maintaining smooth clinic operations in the absence of regular staff.

What is the difference between Relief Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectRelief Veterinary AssistantVeterinary Assistant
CertificationsOften requires veterinary assistant certification or related trainingTypically requires veterinary assistant certification or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentTemporary, varied clinics or hospitals, flexible schedulingFull-time or part-time at a specific clinic or hospital
Employer UsageUsed by clinics needing temporary staffing or coverageEmployed directly by a veterinary practice
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly searched for temporary or substitute rolesStandard, ongoing veterinary support roles

In summary, Relief Veterinary Assistants provide temporary support across various clinics, often requiring similar certifications as Veterinary Assistants. They offer flexible, short-term coverage, whereas Veterinary Assistants typically work full-time at a single practice. Both roles require relevant certifications and support veterinary teams in daily tasks.

How does the role of a Relief Veterinary Assistant differ from that of a full-time veterinary assistant, especially regarding work schedules and team dynamics?

As a Relief Veterinary Assistant, you typically fill in on an as-needed basis to cover staff shortages, vacations, or busy periods, which means your schedule may be less predictable compared to permanent staff. This role often requires quickly adapting to new clinic environments, workflows, and team members, so strong communication and flexibility are crucial. You'll collaborate closely with veterinarians and technicians to support animal care and maintain clinic operations, often stepping into routines with minimal orientation. The variety and pace can be rewarding, but being proactive and adaptable will help you succeed in different settings.
More about Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Relief Veterinary Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs are:
Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Relief Veterinary Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Relief Veterinary Assistant

Relief Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Practice Partners

Kennewick, WA

$17.13 - $20.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Veterinary Practice Partners rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 174 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

.Veterinary Assistant

Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center is hiring a Relief Veterinary Assistant to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each animal receives the best possible care. If you are enthusiastic, reliable, and excited about helping us maintain our high standards of animal care and customer service, we would love to hear from you!

What to Expect

As you join our mission to provide high-quality, compassionate veterinary care when pets need it most, expect to be supported in your work and home life with:

  • All the benefits you deserve-medical, dental, vision, retirement, PTO -plus an employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.

Salary: $17.13 - $20.50 per hour (based on experience and qualifications)

Schedule: Relief Working hours will vary. Monday - Saturday 7:30am -11:30pm Sundays 7:30am-7:30pm

Reports To: Lead Veterinary Technician

Key Responsibilities
  • Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians during examinations, treatments, and surgeries
  • Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately
  • Collect patient information including weight, vitals, medical history, and food intake
  • Prepare and review treatment plans with clients
  • Perform patient discharges and provide post-operative/procedure education
  • Perform outpatient procedures such as vaccines, nail trims, anal gland expressions, and diagnostic sample collections under supervision
  • Take radiographs using proper technique while ensuring personal safety
  • Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment
  • Maintain accurate medical records and ensure proper documentation
  • Assist with emergency situations and remain calm under pressure
  • Communicate professionally with pet owners about care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe clinic environment
  • Support reception staff and cross-train in multiple areas as needed
QualificationsRequired:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs and to handle animals safely and compassionately
  • Strong communication and client service skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced urgent care environment
  • Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
Preferred:
  • Previous experience in a veterinary setting
  • Washington Veterinary Medication Clerk Permit
  • Technical skills in areas such as venipuncture, catheter placement, and anesthesia monitoring
  • CPR/BLS RECOVER certification
What Makes You Successful Here:
  • Proactive work ethic with strong initiative
  • Positive attitude and adaptability
  • Commitment to learning and professional growth
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure
  • Team collaboration and constructive communication
Our Core Values

We seek team members who embody:

  • Providing exceptional service with compassion and hospitality
  • Making positive assumptions about others
  • Building trust through transparency
  • Embody a growth mindset
About Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center

At Horse Heaven Hills, we go beyond standard care to create a welcoming environment where pets receive expert attention when they need it most. By fostering trust, embracing innovation, and prioritizing service with compassion, we deliver exceptional veterinary care with empathy, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to pet well-being.

We offer career advancement opportunities with clearly defined growth paths from entry-level to senior leadership roles.

Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center is an equal opportunity employer.

#VETASST

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