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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Banfield Pet Hospital

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 ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$15.19 - $19.41/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet Assistant. While working closely ...

Aylett Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Aylett, VA · On-site

$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) ...

EverVet Partners

Veterinary Assistant

Suffolk, VA

$16/hr

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 ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

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 ...

Innovetive Petcare

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 ...

Innovetive Petcare

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 ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Seeking a Veterinary Assistant! VCA University Veterinary Clinic is seeking a full time Veterinary Assistant to join our full service hospital in Fairfax, VA! We work hard to deliver the best medical ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Hampton, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Our Veterinary Assistants set the tone for the technical and customer support in the hospital, and are responsible, like all team members, for fostering cohesion and motivation within the practice.

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Veterinary Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, 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.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,552 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

National Veterinary Associates

Herndon, VA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Herndon Animal Medical Center

At Herndon Animal Medical Center, we provide thoughtful, compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to the pets and families in our community. We believe strong medicine starts with a strong team - our doctors, technicians, assistants, and client service team work together to create a culture where communication, respect, and patient advocacy matter. We're looking for someone who brings a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and genuine care for the people and animals we serve.

What You'll Do

As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll work alongside our doctors and licensed technicians to deliver excellent patient care and keep the hospital running smoothly. Responsibilities include:

Assisting veterinarians and LVTs during examinations, treatments, and procedures.

Safe and compassionate handling and restraint of dogs and cats.

Performing venipuncture, collecting samples, and running in-house lab work.

Preparing samples for outside reference labs.

Administering vaccines, medications, and treatments under veterinarian supervision.

Assisting with surgical prep, patient monitoring, and recovery.

Taking radiographs and performing other diagnostic support as needed.

Communicating with clients regarding patient care, home instructions, and follow-up.

Maintaining accurate medical records and entering charges.

Keeping exam rooms, treatment areas, and equipment clean, stocked, and ready.

Supporting general kennel and facility maintenance.

Who You Are

Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level candidates considered.

Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures, and basic clinical tasks.

Able to safely and compassionately handle dogs and cats.

Clear communicator with clients, doctors, and teammates.

Organized and calm in a fast-paced hospital environment.

Reliable, punctual, and accountable.

Eager to learn and grow professionally.

Comfortable with computers and practice management software.

Able to lift and restrain pets as needed.

What We Offer

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.

Health, dental, and vision insurance.

401(k) with company match.

Paid time off and paid holidays.

Continuing education opportunities.

Uniform allowance.

Employee pet care discounts.

Training and professional development opportunities.

A supportive team environment focused on compassionate care and excellent client service.

Benefits may vary based on full-time or part-time status.

Schedule: Full-time & Part- time positions available; No nights or Weekends. 

Location: In person - Herndon, VA

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About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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