1

Veterinary Assistant Externship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Veterinary Assistant Externship information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant externship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant externship 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 types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a Veterinary Assistant Externship?

During a Veterinary Assistant Externship, you'll typically assist with animal handling, support veterinarians and technicians during exams and procedures, and help with routine tasks such as cleaning kennels and preparing equipment. You may also observe surgeries, learn about medical recordkeeping, and interact with clients under supervision. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical skills, work within a team, and see firsthand how a veterinary clinic operates day-to-day.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant Externship vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary Assistant ExternshipVeterinary Technician
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required; may be part of a training programRequires graduation from an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program and passing the VTNE exam
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, or hospitals; supervised by licensed veterinarians or techniciansMore advanced clinical tasks; working alongside veterinarians in clinics and hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with animal restraint, cleaning, basic patient carePerforming diagnostic tests, anesthesia, surgical assisting, and client communication

The Veterinary Assistant Externship provides hands-on experience for those interested in veterinary support roles, focusing on basic animal care and assisting veterinarians. In contrast, Veterinary Technicians have completed formal education and certification, enabling them to perform more complex clinical tasks. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but the technician role involves a higher level of responsibility and expertise.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Assistant Extern, you need basic animal care knowledge, strong observational skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with enrollment in a veterinary program. Familiarity with veterinary clinic software, animal handling equipment, and sanitation protocols is typically required. Compassion, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills that help build trust with clients and support the veterinary team. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining a safe work environment, and contributing to efficient clinic operations.

What is a Veterinary Assistant Externship?

A Veterinary Assistant Externship is a temporary, hands-on training program designed for students or individuals interested in becoming veterinary assistants. During the externship, participants work under the supervision of veterinary professionals to gain practical experience in animal care, assisting with procedures, and learning about veterinary clinic operations. Externships are typically unpaid, but they provide valuable exposure to real-world veterinary settings and can be a stepping stone to a career in veterinary medicine. Most programs require participants to observe, assist with basic tasks, and sometimes interact with clients and patients. Completing an externship can also help build a professional network and strengthen a resume.
More about Veterinary Assistant Externship jobs
What cities are hiring for Veterinary Assistant Externship jobs? Cities with the most Veterinary Assistant Externship job openings:
What states have the most Veterinary Assistant Externship jobs? States with the most job openings for Veterinary Assistant Externship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant Externship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Internship, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Veterinary Student Externship

Veterinary Student Externship

American Veterinary Group

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Temporary

Posted 29 days ago


American Veterinary Group rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 48 rated veterinary


Job description

Veterinary Student Externship
Department: UrgentVet Hospitals
Employment Type: Temporary
Location: UrgentVet - Ballantyne
Description
The primary purpose of our Veterinary Student Externship is to provide a hands-on learning experience for 3rd and 4th year students who are enrolled in a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. The program is typically scheduled for 2-week blocks at our hospital. We feel that the students who possess an open mind and a willingness to learn will benefit the most from our externship.
Key Responsibilities
The Veterinary Student Extern is responsible for performing inpatient and outpatient medical care under the direct supervision of our veterinary staff. They will be expected to perform in-house diagnostic tests (hematology, chemistry, and radiology) with competence, perform routine client education, and to assist in surgical procedures.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Participants in the Veterinary Extern Program must currently be enrolled in an AVMA-accredited Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program.

What American Veterinary Group employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


American Veterinary Group logo

About American Veterinary Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 2015, American Veterinary Group (AVG) owns and operates a network of 120+ veterinary practices throughout the South that treat and protect over 75,000 pets annually. Our goal is to provide ongoing, in-person support to ease the burden of the day-to-day operations of veterinary practices, including in-office staff training, educational and marketing tools, and back office support. We deliver high touch practice management solutions to help veterinarians focus on the needs of their patients, instead of the needs of their business. We are animal lovers above all else, and operate with the motto, "pet first, client first".

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

2015

Social media