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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Veterinary Receptionist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$16/hr

Pet care discounts If you're looking to take your veterinary assistant career to the next level in a hospital that believes in teamwork, growth, and good vibes, we want to meet you. Contact ...

Partnership for Animals in Athens/Limestone

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Veterinary Technician

Harvest, AL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

... veterinary assistants, new staff members, and trainees to use patient care protocols.  Must be able to use appropriate safety equipment for fractious or feral animals.  Must be able to work ...

Partnership for Animals in Athens/Limestone

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Veterinary Technician

Harvest, AL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

... veterinary assistants, new staff members, and trainees to use patient care protocols.  Must be able to use appropriate safety equipment for fractious or feral animals.  Must be able to work ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL

Veterinary Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

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$16

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How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Decatur, AL is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.79 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.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Decatur, AL?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,616 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Licensed Veterinary Technician at Animal Tracks Veterinary Hospital

Heartland Veterinary Partners LLC

Decatur, AL • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Heartland Veterinary Partners rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

Practice

Animal Tracks is a small animal clinic that offers a wide range of services including vaccines, surgery, dental cleanings, in-hospital bloodwork, digital radiographs, Ultrasound, boarding, and doggie daycare. The Animal Tracks team is a group of caring individuals dedicated to providing quality pet care in a warm, friendly, and family-like environment. Our passion is animals, and we treat each of our patients as family members.

More About The Role

The Credentialed Veterinary Technician performs a critical role in providing high quality care for patients. Credentialed Technicians are key partners to the veterinarians, providing the appropriate support to ensure each client interaction and procedure is seamless and successful. Credentialed Technicians apply their professional skills in anesthesia, surgery, dentistry, laboratory testing, patient nursing, and client education.

Pay $20 - $30

ATTENTION Veterinary Assistants: Are you VTNE ready but have yet to take the leap? JOIN US! Learn how we can aide with VTNE prep classes, test/application fees, and more!

Competencies
  • Patience & Compassion: Remaining professional while still making teammates, clients, and patients feel as comfortable as possible regardless of the situation or challenges presented. Responding quickly and calmly to crisis while maintaining a high standard of patient care.
  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Carefully coordinating actions with veterinarians and practice team members. Providing feedback appropriately and in a timely manner. Quickly incorporating feedback to ensure positive results. Sharing ideas and being open to other's ideas.
  • Communicating: Conveying instructions to clients and teammates to ensure successful patient care.
  • Active Listening: Following the instructions of veterinarians and sometimes patient owners. Picking up on the needs of veterinarians and teammates based on prior experiences and feedback.
  • Organization Skills: Clear tracking of lab specimens, medications, patient instructions, workflow, and other job-related items while managing multiple patients and clients.
  • Client Satisfaction: Ensuring all activities and interactions result in the highest level of client satisfaction.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Assist veterinarians in the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery and other tasks as needed.
  • Assist veterinarians in outpatient exams by taking histories, vital signs, and weights, as well as providing client education.
  • Prepare patients for surgery and monitor vital signs of the patient during surgery.
  • Obtain blood, stool, and other samples; perform in-hospital laboratory testing and prepare specimens for outside laboratories.
  • Take, develop, and maintain radiographs following proper safety procedures.
  • Provide basic animal handling and restrain animals during exams.
  • Administer and monitor medications, anesthesia, vaccines, and treatments at the discretion of the veterinarian.
  • Clean and straighten exam rooms, treatment, and lab areas; restock exam rooms with supplies. Assist other team members to keep the public areas of the practice clean; clean and maintain all medical equipment.
  • Demonstrate warmth, courtesy and professionalism in all interactions with clients; exercise compassion and care in all interactions with patients.
  • Communicate with veterinarians and practice team members including client discussions, patient plans, client concerns, etc.
  • Any other duties as assigned.
Requirements/Qualifications
  • State license to work as a certified/licensed/registered veterinary technician in state of desired employment
  • Ability to lift patients and carry equipment up to 25 pounds; ability to lift patients or carry equipment over 25 pounds with assistance
  • Practice OSHA safety techniques including proper PPE
  • Basic computer skills, familiarity with MS office applications, etc.
  • Basic math and ability to calculate medication dosages
  • Strong communication skills to ensure patient safety
Benefits Offered
  • Paid time off
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement benefits (401k, Roth k and matching)
  • Bonus incentive
  • Career and professional development
  • State licensing fee reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Benefits offered may vary depending on full or part time employment status according to company policy.

Pay Range

USD $20.00 - USD $30.00 /Hr.

What Heartland Veterinary Partners employees say

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