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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Brainerd, MN (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Practice Partners

Veterinarian

Baxter, MN · On-site

Closed Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is hiring an Associate Veterinarian to provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care to a variety of animal patients. What to Expect * 4:1 Staff-to ...

Lakeland Veterinary Hospital

Veterinarian

Baxter, MN · On-site

Closed Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is hiring an Associate Veterinarian toprovide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care to a variety of animal patients. What to Expect * 4:1 Staff-to ...

Lakeland Veterinary Hospital

Veterinarian

Baxter, MN · On-site

Closed Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is hiring an Associate Veterinarian toprovide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care to a variety of animal patients. What to Expect * 4:1 Staff-to ...

Veterinary Practice Partners

Veterinarian

Baxter, MN · On-site

Closed Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is hiring an Associate Veterinarian toprovide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care to a variety of animal patients. What to Expect * 4:1 Staff-to ...

Lakeland Veterinary Hospital

Veterinarian

Baxter, MN · On-site

Closed Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is hiring an Associate Veterinarian to provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care to a variety of animal patients. What to Expect * 4:1 Staff-to ...

Veterinary Practice Partners

Veterinarian

Baxter, MN · On-site

Closed Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is hiring an Associate Veterinarian toprovide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care to a variety of animal patients. What to Expect * 4:1 Staff-to ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Brainerd, MN salary details

$9

$16

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How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Brainerd, MN is $16.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Brainerd, MN are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Brainerd, MN with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Brainerd, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,086 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant - Animal Care Center

Lakefield Veterinary Group

Baxter, MN • On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Veterinary Assistant Technician in Baxter, MN
Voted Best in the Area for Veterinary Clinics and Grooming Facilities, Animal Care Center is seeking a full-time Veterinary Assistant to join our collaborative 3-doctor team in Minnesota's beautiful Brainerd Lakes Area.
If you're looking for a hospital where staff are trusted, respected, and utilized to their full potential, you'll feel right at home here. We maintain an exceptional 2:1 technician/assistant-to-doctor ratio, allowing our team to focus on delivering outstanding patient care while practicing advanced technical skills. Our Assistants play an integral role in assisting our CSRs, technicians and doctors with many duties including monitoring procedures, and managing dedicated technician appointments.
We believe work-life balance is just as important as quality medicine. Our hospital is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, no regular evenings, weekends, or holiday shifts. Full-time technicians are scheduled either four days or five days each week and enjoy a full one-hour lunch break every shift.
For those interested in additional earning opportunities, technician & assistants may participate in our after-hours emergency on-call program on weekends. Team members receive an on-call stipend plus a minimum of two hours of time-and-a-half pay whenever called into the hospital.
At Animal Care Center, you'll be part of a professional, supportive team dedicated to providing exceptional medical, surgical, and dental care while helping our team grow their skills and build rewarding long-term careers.
Pay Range: $16-19 per hour based on experience
For more information about our hospital, please visit AnimalCareCenterBaxter.com
Please apply at Find Your Career - Lakefield Careers
ABOUT LAKEFIELD VETERINARY GROUP
We believe exceptional veterinary care starts with exceptional people.
We partner with hospitals across the country to preserve what makes each practice special - its people, culture, and connection to community - while providing the operational support and resources that allow teams to thrive.
As we grow, we are committed to creating an environment where team members feel respected, supported, and empowered to deliver outstanding care.
Our Values
Our culture is built on five core values that guide how we work and serve:
  • Respect
  • Learning
  • Do the Right Thing
  • Wow Service
  • Fun

If these resonate with you, you'll fit right in.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Lakefield Veterinary Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members and applicants.
Compensation Range
$16-$19 USD

Apply