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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Airdrie, AB (NOW HIRING)

LASIK MD

Clinical Assistant

Calgary, AB

... veterinary assistant, etc.). * You are looking for a fast-paced, dynamic work environment where your ability to work in a team and excel at multi-tasking will be an asset. * Schedule: You have ...

LASIK MD

Clinical Assistant

Calgary, AB · On-site

... veterinary assistant, etc.). * You are looking for a fast-paced, dynamic work environment where your ability to work in a team and excel at multi-tasking will be an asset. * Schedule: You have ...

LASIK MD

Clinical Assistant

Calgary, AB

... veterinary assistant, etc.). * You are looking for a fast-paced, dynamic work environment where your ability to work in a team and excel at multi-tasking will be an asset. * Schedule: You have ...

LASIK MD

Surgical Assistant

Calgary, AB

... Veterinary Assistant, Medical Device Reprocessing Technician, etc. ). * Schedule: You have flexible availability to work Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. From our point of view If you ...

LASIK MD

Surgical Assistant

Calgary, AB

... Veterinary Assistant, Medical Device Reprocessing Technician, etc. ). * Schedule: You have flexible availability to work Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. From our point of view If you ...

LASIK MD

Surgical Assistant

Calgary, AB · On-site

... Veterinary Assistant, Medical Device Reprocessing Technician, etc. ). * Schedule:You have flexible availability to work Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. From our point of view If you think ...

LASIK MD

Administrative Assistant

Calgary, AB · On-site

... veterinary assistant, etc.). * You are looking for a fast-paced, dynamic work environment where your ability to work in a team and excel at multi-tasking will be an asset. * Schedule: You have ...

LASIK MD

Administrative Assistant

Calgary, AB

... veterinary assistant, etc.). * You are looking for a fast-paced, dynamic work environment where your ability to work in a team and excel at multi-tasking will be an asset. * Schedule: You have ...

LASIK MD

Administrative Assistant

Calgary, AB

... veterinary assistant, etc.). * You are looking for a fast-paced, dynamic work environment where your ability to work in a team and excel at multi-tasking will be an asset. * Schedule: You have ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

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 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 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.

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 certifications or coursework in animal care. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

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.

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 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 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.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs

What cities near Airdrie, AB are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Airdrie, AB with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Airdrie, AB as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Veterinary Assistant, Surgery, Western Veterinary Specialist and Emergency Centre

VCA Animal Hospitals

Calgary, AB • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 10 days ago

VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 56 rated veterinary

Job description

Veterinary AssistantLocation: Calgary, ABDepartment: SurgerySchedule: 40-hour, 4 day/week compressed work week.

Western Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Centre is welcoming a full-time Surgery and pack roomVeterinary Technician Assistant to join our dedicated and dynamic pet health care team. Western is a 24-hour emergency and referral specialty hospital. We are committed to supporting pet owners and the veterinary community by providing the highest level of emergency and referral care.

Our team members are passionate about pets and their people.

The ideal candidate will be energetic, self-motivated, outgoing and possess strong organizational skills. Western is a fast-paced environment, so the ability to multitask is essential. Strong interpersonal skills are necessary to thrive in our strongly team-based environment. Previous or equivalent veterinary experience is preferred.

The primary role of the Surgery Animal Health Tech Assistant is to assist the AHTs and Veterinarians with daily tasks and patient care.

  • Perform proper restraint techniques when assisting AHT's and veterinarians assess and treat patients

  • Assist veterinarians and AHT's while they collect samples and take radiographs

  • Aide in the preparation for surgery and other procedures

  • Help to maintain the hospital treatment areas and ensure general cleanliness

  • Administration duties including client call backs, filing and faxing

  • Clean surgical suites and autoclave instruments

What We Can Offer You

  • Competitive compensation that reflects your skills, experience, and the role.

  • RRSP Employer Group Match Program (5%) to help you save for the future.

  • Paid time off for continuing education, vacation, sick days, and personal wellness days.

  • Annual CE Allowance.

  • Benefits: Minimum 24 hours per week for eligibility, with flexible options.

  • Paid annual certification memberships and uniform allowance.

  • Mental health support tools and resources: Virtual health care (telemedicine), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and digital wellness tools supporting mindfulness, sleep, and physical fitness.

  • Various career development pathways.

  • Generous personal pet care discounts and lifestyle perks, including exclusive shopping discounts and access to a wellness app

Our Story

VCA Canada is a network of veterinary hospitals, with our head office in Calgary, Alberta, committed to positively impacting pets, people, and local communities for nearly 45 years. We have compassion for the neighbourhoods we serve and every pet within them, not just those we see in our hospitals. Every VCA Canada hospital location takes pride in its legacy of excellence, earning the trust of pet owners by delivering the highest quality of medicine to keep pets happy and healthy.
In 2017, VCA Canada became part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, solidifying an even stronger commitment to ensuring the strength and stability of the veterinary profession and our commitment to pet parents nationwide. VCA Canada is also passionate about providing an industry-leading Associate experience to over 4,000 Canadians employed across the country. In 2026, for the third year in a row, we were named one of Alberta's Top Employers, which recognizes organizations whose head offices are located within the province and lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Additionally,we were selected as one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People 2026, which recognizes employers across Canada that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work and programs for young people starting their careers.Most recently, we received 2026 Great Place to Work Certification Canada.

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