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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, TN (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Practice Partners

Kennel Assistant

Hixson, TN

$10 - $15.50/hr

Northgate Animal Hospital is hiring a full-time or part time Kennel Assistants to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each ...

Veterinary Practice Partners

Kennel Assistant

Hixson, TN · On-site

$10 - $15.50/hr

Northgate Animal Hospital is hiring a full-time or part time Kennel Assistants to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, TN

Veterinary Assistant information

See Decatur, TN salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Decatur, TN is $14.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $15.58 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 are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Decatur, TN?

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

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

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

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Decatur, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,393 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant Overnight

VCA Animal Hospitals

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 659 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

VCA RIVER is hiring an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our overnight emergency and ICU team at our AAHA-accredited emergency and specialty animal hospital in Chattanooga, TN.
Come work in a family environment where we embody a positive culture of trust, support, and teamwork. We nurture the concept of providing world class medicine and hometown care. If this sounds like your ideal work home, read more to see what else we provide for our patients, clients, and team members.
Location: VCA Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergencies and Referrals
2132 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406
Shift availability: Full time. Monday - Thursday 10pm - 8am
Compensation: $18 - $22 / hr is based on skill set and experience.
$3 overnight differential offered.
About Us
We are home to a wonderful team of specialists, LVMTs, and support staff, with services including Diagnostic Imaging, Surgery, Physical Rehabilitation, Internal Medicine, and 24/7 Emergency. Our doctor team includes a veterinary radiologist, certified canine rehabilitation practitioners (CCRP), and an internist.
Our imaging services include ultrasound, echocardiography, and CT. We offer a variety of orthopedic and soft tissue surgeries, fluoroscopy via C-arm, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Our internal medicine service offers endoscopy, rhinoscopy, cystoscopy, and some chemotherapy. Our rehab service offers a variety of options including underwater treadmill.
Check out our website here: https://vcahospitals.com/regional-institute
About the Role
You will support our 24/7 Emergency & Critical Care service by providing care, diagnostics and treatments for our patients. Skills that you will be utilizing include, but are not limited to:
  • Compassionate patient care
  • Client education and care
  • Gentle, safe, and effective veterinary patient handling
  • Lab sample collection and processing
  • Pharmacy and medication administration
  • Diagnostic imaging
  • Surgical preparation and assisting
  • Medical recordkeeping

Qualifications
  • Proficient in veterinary assisting duties including those listed above
  • One or more years of veterinary assisting experience
  • Experience with emergency & critical care and specialty medicine preferred
  • Available to work some weekends to meet scheduling needs.

Why VCA
VCA Animal Hospitals offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including Medical/Dental/Vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, pet care discounts, paid vacation, holidays and sick days, health and well-being programs that provide resources and training. Compensation is negotiable based on education, experience, and other relevant credentials.
Interested in learning more? Apply today!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development)
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com
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.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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