1

Relief Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Relief Veterinarian The primary purpose and function of the Relief Veterinarian is to provide ... Understand and follow state guidelines regarding duties of veterinary assistants and licensed ...

LVT's and veterinary assistants are an integral part of these visits, collecting vitals, filling ... Both true relief and set schedules welcome. Fully Remote! Responsibilities: * Strong communication ...

Responsible for the ownership and management of the controlled substance inventory for relief ... assistants, and veterinary technicians by performing medical record reviews, veterinary quality ...

Responsible for the ownership and management of the controlled substance inventory for relief ... assistants, and veterinary technicians by performing medical record reviews, veterinary quality ...

... assistants, and veterinary technicians by performing medical record reviews, veterinary quality ... Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the ...

... assistants, and veterinary technicians by performing medical record reviews, veterinary quality ... Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the ...

Showing results 41-60

Relief Veterinary Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do relief veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for relief veterinary assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.62 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.
What job categories do people searching Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Relief Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Relief Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Relief Veterinary Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% As Needed, 66% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,071 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Veterinary Dentist - Veterinary Referral Associates

Veterinary Referral Associates

Gaithersburg, MD โ€ข On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people - providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage - for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience - every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or Residency Trained Veterinary Dentist to join our dynamic and compassionate team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high-quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.
Veterinary Referral Associates (VRA) in Gaithersburg, Maryland is an AAHA-accredited, 24-hour specialty and emergency hospital. Located just a short drive from Washington, D.C., this area offers access to both a vibrant urban lifestyle and a high-quality professional environment. Our 30,000+ square foot facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offers a wide range of specialty services. Advanced diagnostic testing, including CT, MRI, ultrasound, endoscopy, digital radiography, and fluoroscopy, is available on-site, ensuring our patients receive the best possible care. As our Dentist, you will be responsible for providing high-quality dental care to our patients. You will handle both routine dental procedures as well as more complex surgeries, diagnosing and treating conditions like periodontal disease, dental trauma, and oral cancers.
Why Join Us:
  • You will be working alongside a diverse team of specialists, including two Anesthesiologists and anesthesia support staff to ensure optimal outcomes.
  • You would have the ability to choose which equipment you want to work with, while enjoying our modern, dedicated dental suite.
  • VRA offers a collaborative environment where specialists and emergency veterinarians work together to provide the gold standard in patient care.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com.
What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members - professionally and personally. Benefits include:
  • Signing, retention and relocation package up to $75,000
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team Member Pet Discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support - including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle - a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
  • Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Key Responsibilities
  • Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
  • Client communication and education
  • Maintaining accurate medical records
  • Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
  • Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
  • Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
  • Evaluate and monitor protocols for the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
  • Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being upheld
  • Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
  • Performs other duties as assigned by Management.

Qualifications (Required)
  • Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
  • 1-year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice).
  • Completed a 3-year, AVMA approved residency program
  • Current State Veterinary License
  • DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
  • Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
  • Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
  • Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
  • Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
  • May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
  • Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
  • Board Certification
  • 2-5 years of experience post-residency
  • Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high-quality veterinary hospital.
  • Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff.
  • Professionalism: Work as part of a high-quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
  • Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
  • Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients.
  • Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others.

Pay Range
$200,000-$280,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care - for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.