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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistants Employment Type: Full Time Location: Atlanta, Georgia Description Join a General Practice Where Your Technical Skills Make a Difference Every Day Brookhaven Animal Hospital is ...

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Perform or assist with dental prophylaxis and digital dental radiography based on experience and credentialing * Utilize advanced nursing skills every day * Work alongside experienced veterinarians ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Decatur, GA salary details

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How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Decatur, GA is $16.83, 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 is the top pay for a veterinary assistant?

The top pay for a veterinary assistant typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, with some experienced or specialized assistants earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of veterinary practice, and additional certifications may lead to higher pay.

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.

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 are veterinary assistants?

Veterinary assistants are animal care professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Their duties include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, cleaning and disinfecting kennels and exam rooms, and assisting with handling animals during examinations or procedures. They may also help with administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and maintaining records. Veterinary assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of veterinary facilities.

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.

What qualifications do you need to be a vet 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. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and the ability to handle animals safely are important for this role.

Is 30 too late to become a vet?

Veterinary assistants can start their careers at any age, and becoming a veterinarian typically requires completing a bachelor's degree and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which can be pursued at any age. Many people enter veterinary school later in life, so 30 is not too late to pursue a career in veterinary medicine or related roles in animal care.

Can I be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistants often do not need prior experience to start, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are important, and some employers may prefer candidates with related certifications or coursework in animal care.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,011 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Part-Time Senior Veterinary Assistant

Acworth Animal Hospital

Acworth, GA • On-site

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description
Our hospital is seeking a Part-Time Senior Veterinary Assistant to help provide outstanding patient care and client service in a fast-paced, multi-doctor animal hospital.

The Senior Veterinary Assistant is responsible for assisting Veterinarians in the care of animals. The Senior Veterinary Assistant helps during initial examinations by restraining animals when necessary, stocking examination and surgery rooms with supplies, sterilizing tools and ensuring that equipment is in working order. Technical skills will include, but are not limited to, and are subject to state limitations: venipuncture, catheter placement, anesthesia administration, and monitoring, dental prophy, radiography, administering medications, performing laboratory analysis, and client education. Senior Veterinary Assistant's also communicate with clients (pet owners) and update patient files.

Ideal Candidate
  • Demonstrates professionalism, dependability, healthy and positive communication skills, and the ability to multi-task in a hands-on environment
  • Energetic people-and-pet person with excellent work ethic and social and organizational skills
  • Be compassionate/caring
  • Willing to work flexible hours including weekends
  • Can work individually, as well as on a team
  • Self-starter personality that can complete daily tasks without the need for constant direction

Skills, Knowledge, & Expertise
  • Prior Customer Service Experience
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs.
  • This position requires regular on-site presence as an essential function of the role. Due to the nature of veterinary hospital operations, in-person attendance is necessary to support patient care, respond to time-sensitive needs, collaborate with clinical teams, and maintain the safety and well-being of patients, clients, and staff. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and will consider requests for reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable laws.




Benefits
  • 401k Match
  • Discounted Veterinary Care
  • Scrub allowance 
  • Hands-on and E-training 
  • Professional growth opportunities