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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

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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 are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Calgary, AB?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Calgary, AB are:

What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Calgary, AB?

For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Calgary, AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Calgary, AB look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Calgary, AB are:

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

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

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Calgary, AB as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Veterinarian, Radiologist, Western Veterinary Specialist and Emergency Centre

VCA Animal Hospitals

Calgary, AB

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Join the small animal specialty, referral, and 24-hour emergency practice as a board-certified Radiologist or a candidate nearing residency completion.

  • Perform clinical radiology work and teleradiology, with a flexible schedule allowing for casual and part-time work arrangements.

  • Collaborate with other specialists and emergency doctors, and participate in training interns and students at the hospital.

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

Veterinarian, Radiologist, DVMLocation: Calgary, ABDepartment: Radiology

Western Veterinary Specialist and Emergency Centreis seeking a board certifiedRadiologistto join our small animal specialty, referral and 24-hour emergency practice in Calgary, Alberta. We also welcome applicants who are nearing the completion of their residency training and waiting to complete board exams.

Schedule: This is a flexible role, allowing casual, part-time work, allowing the applicant a hybrid work arrangement between clinical radiology work and teleradiology.

Founded in 2001, WVSEC is dedicated to serving the needs of veterinarians and pet owners, offering state-of-the-art specialty and emergency veterinary services at one of the largest, most comprehensive facilities of its kind in Canada. Our team includes specialists in Critical Care, dermatology, Medical and Radiation Oncology, Radiology, Surgery, Internal Medicine, along with 24-hour emergency care and rehabilitation services. Our hospital culture fosters teamwork and camaraderie that naturally leads to delivering exceptional care to our patients, and service to our clients, referring veterinarians and our community. The hospital is well equipped with digital radiography, ultrasound, endoscopy, fluoroscopy, CT scanner, linear accelerator, mechanical ventilator, a complete on-site diagnostic laboratory and monitoring equipment. The hospital is currently expanding with the addition of a Neurology department and on-site MRI. Our referral base is large, with over 75 referring hospitals in our 1.2 million person trade area. Twenty of these hospitals in Calgary are partner clinics from whom we draw referrals to all services.

About Our Candidate

The ideal candidate must be possess a positive and collegial personality, strong communication skills, and enjoy interacting with other specialists and emergency doctors. We also train interns and students at our hospital in collaboration with the University of Calgary School of Veterinary Medicine.

What We Can Offer You

  • RRSP 5% Employer Group Match Program!

  • VCA Canada RRSP Student Loan Program- Ask us more!

  • VCA AcademyMentorship Program, a six-month tailored mentorship program with ongoing support

  • Medical Library Access; 2000+ journals, 600+ textbooks, research, and more at your fingertips!

  • Continuing education benefits - we know you love to learn!

  • Career and leadership opportunities

  • Licensing, membership dues, and conference fees

  • Referral bonus rewards

  • Paid wellness days, paid sick days, paid vacation time

  • Employee assistance programs

  • E-tools to assist with meditation, better sleep, exercise, and focus

  • Virtual health care offering quick access to quality care

  • Professional liability insurance coverage

  • Opportunities to give back in your community through VCA Canada initiatives

Applynow to have a conversation and explore how you can grow with us!

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.

VCA is committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. If you require any assistance please let us know.

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If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

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