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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Aylett, VA

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Veterinary Assistant Status: Part-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: 25-30 hours per week Benefits Highlights Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive pay, 401(k) ...

Veterinary Assistant

Aylett, VA

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Veterinary Assistant Status: Part-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: 25-30 hours per week Benefits Highlights Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive pay, 401(k) ...

Veterinary Assistant

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

. COTA Veterinary is a hiring full-time Veterinary Assistants to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each animal receives the ...

Why You'll Love this Veterinary Assistant Job! If you are passionate about animals and excited about the opportunity to interact with a variety of pets, then our Veterinary Assistant position is the ...

Veterinary Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.40 - $23.51/hr

The Veterinary Assistant is a key member of the hospital team who supports and assists the veterinarians and veterinary technicians, ensuring the safety of pets, clients and other associates, and the ...

Veterinary Assistant

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Veterinary Assistant - Full-Time Bon Air Animal Hospital | Richmond Bon Air Animal Hospital is a trusted, full-service veterinary practice serving the Richmond community with high-quality ...

Veterinary Assistant

Sterling, VA · On-site

$18.40 - $23.51/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital of Sterling! We are looking for weekend support. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than ...

Showing results 21-40

Veterinary Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Virginia is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform tasks such as animal care, cleaning, and supporting veterinarians, often working in clinics or animal hospitals. The role can be rewarding for those passionate about animals but typically offers entry-level pay and requires physical stamina and good communication skills. Career advancement may involve gaining experience or pursuing additional certifications in veterinary technology.

Can I be a veterinary assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are valuable, and some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

What qualifications do you need to be a veterinary assistant?

Veterinary assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal education is not always required, completing a veterinary assistant training program or certification can improve job prospects. Strong communication skills, basic knowledge of animal care, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are some typical challenges veterinary assistants face when working in fast-paced animal clinics?

Veterinary assistants in busy clinics often juggle multiple tasks, such as restraining animals, cleaning exam rooms, assisting with procedures, and communicating with pet owners. Managing high patient volume while maintaining accuracy and compassion can be challenging, especially during emergencies or peak hours. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong organizational skills are essential to handle shifting priorities and ensure quality care for both animals and clients.

What do veterinary assistants do?

Veterinary Assistants, or vet assistants, help Veterinarians and Veterinarian Technicians in animal care hospitals, animal clinics, or other veterinary facilities. As a Veterinary Assistant, you feed, bathe, and exercise animals in your care. Veterinarian Assistants also restrain animals when the vet examines or treats them. Other job duties may include greeting pet owners when they enter the office, organizing files, and cleaning and sterilizing equipment. Some Veterinary Assistant positions require you to perform lab work, such as collecting urine samples from animals, drawing blood, and administering medication under the supervision of the primary veterinarian or technician.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary assistant, and why are they important?

Veterinary Assistants need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and medical terminology, often supported by a high school diploma or veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with animal restraint techniques, cleaning protocols, and veterinary software systems is common in this role. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills distinguish exceptional Veterinary Assistants. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal well-being, supporting veterinarians, and maintaining an efficient, safe clinical environment.

What do I need to be a veterinary assistant?

To become a veterinary assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include animal handling, communication, and basic knowledge of veterinary procedures; some employers may prefer certification or on-the-job training. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a veterinary clinic environment are also important.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians and technicians in clinics, animal shelters, and labsPerform more advanced medical procedures under supervision in clinics and hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAnimal restraint, cleaning, basic patient care, clerical tasksPerform lab work, administer medications, assist in surgeries, diagnostic testing
Industry UsageCommon entry-level role in veterinary practicesMore specialized role requiring formal education and certification

The main difference between a Veterinary Assistant and a Veterinary Technician lies in their education, responsibilities, and level of medical involvement. Veterinary Technicians have formal training and perform more complex medical tasks, while Veterinary Assistants focus on basic support and animal care. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but technicians typically have greater responsibilities and qualifications.

Is becoming a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform basic animal care, assist veterinarians, and often work in clinics or animal hospitals. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and offers opportunities for on-the-job training, with job growth driven by increasing pet ownership and demand for veterinary services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,552 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Vetcor rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 217 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Aylett Animal Hospital is Hiring a Veterinary Assistant!

Position Details

Role: Veterinary Assistant
Status: Part-time
Salary: Negotiable and based on experience
Schedule: 25–30 hours per week

Benefits Highlights

Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive pay, 401(k) matching, tuition support, and referral bonuses

Wellness & Peace of Mind: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with supplemental options; up to three weeks of paid parental leave; generous PTO; and employee discounts

Professional Growth & Recognition: Quarterly team bonuses, continuing education allowance, and uniform allowance

Lifestyle Perks You’ll Appreciate: Six paid holidays and an Employee Assistance Program

Looking for a Part-Time Veterinary Assistant Role with a Supportive Team?

Aylett Animal Hospital is seeking a dependable and experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. If you're passionate about animal care, enjoy working alongside a dedicated veterinary team, and thrive in a collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.

This is an excellent opportunity to work in a friendly and supportive hospital where your skills and contributions make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their families.

Why Our Veterinary Assistants Love Aylett Animal Hospital

  • Friendly and supportive team environment
  • Opportunity to work alongside experienced veterinary professionals
  • Meaningful hands-on patient care experience
  • A collaborative culture focused on teamwork and compassion
  • The opportunity to make a difference in the lives of pets and their families

What You’ll Do

  • Assist veterinarians and technicians with patient care and treatments
  • Safely restrain and handle patients during examinations and procedures
  • Support patient care, monitoring, and daily hospital operations
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the hospital
  • Communicate professionally with clients and team members
  • Support the veterinary team in providing exceptional patient care

What Our Veterinary Assistants Bring

  • Previous Veterinary Assistant experience required
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Reliable transportation
  • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds unassisted
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Compassionate and professional attitude toward patients and clients
  • Dependable work ethic and positive attitude

The Extras You’ll Actually Feel

  • A supportive workplace culture that values teamwork
  • Opportunities to continue building your veterinary skills
  • Meaningful work helping pets and their families
  • A team that appreciates your contributions every day

Benefits You Can’t Beat

Financial Benefits

  • A flexible approach to compensation that will reflect your skillset and future performance
  • 401(k) matching & Roth Retirement Savings Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account (full-time only)
  • 529 Savings Plan
  • Tuition Support Program (full-time only)
  • Referral bonus program

Wellness Benefits

  • Health Insurance, including medical, dental, and vision (full-time only)
  • Supplemental insurance, including accident, critical illness, hospital, short and long-term disability, legal plan, and employee, spouse, and child-dependent life insurance (full-time only)
  • Up to three weeks of full pay for the birth or adoption of a child (full-time employees only; available after one year of service). In states with paid family leave programs, this benefit does not apply.
  • Sick Time / Paid Time Off
  • Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets
  • Pet discounts on services and products
  • Pet food discount program

Workplace Benefits

  • Quarterly Team Rewards Bonus Program
  • State license reimbursement
  • VTNE exam fee reimbursement
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Continuing education allowance
  • Uniform allowance

Lifestyle Benefits

  • Six paid holidays (full-time only)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee discount program

Join Our Team!

If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about animal care, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of the Aylett Animal Hospital team!

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values of Bogue Animal Hospital and Vetcor. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all employees. Every team member enriches our diversity by exposing us to various ways to understand and engage with the world. That's why we're committed to a workplace culture where employees are comfortable being their authentic selves, feel a complete sense of belonging, and are empowered to reach their highest potential.



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