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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Exeter, NH (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Salem, NH ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet Assistant. While working closely ...

New

Veterinary Assistant

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$17.60 - $22.49/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet Assistant. While working closely ...

Veterinary Assistant

Salem, NH ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet Assistant. While working closely ...

New

Veterinary Assistant

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Our Veterinary Assistants set the tone for the technical and customer support in the hospital, and are responsible, like all team members, for fostering cohesion and motivation within the practice.

Veterinary Assistant

Rye, NH ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant Sagamore Animal Hospital - Rye, NH Are you ready to find your groove in a place where great medicine and genuinely good people go hand-in-hand? At Sagamore Animal ...

Veterinary Assistant

Rye, NH

$16 - $20/hr

Veterinary Assistant Sagamore Animal Hospital - Rye, NH Are you ready to find your groove in a place where great medicine and genuinely good people go hand-in-hand? At Sagamore Animal Hospital in ...

Veterinary Assistant

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Our Veterinary Assistants set the tone for the technical and customer support in the hospital, and are responsible, like all team members, for fostering cohesion and motivation within the practice.

Veterinary Assistant

Rye, NH

$16 - $20/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant Sagamore Animal Hospital - Rye, NH Are you ready to find your groove in a place where great medicine and genuinely good people go hand-in-hand? At Sagamore Animal ...

Veterinary Assistant

Bedford, NH ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

As an Experienced Veterinary Assistant, you'll be a vital part of our medical team, supporting veterinarians and technicians in delivering top-quality care to patients with a wide range of needs.

Veterinary Assistant

Hudson, NH ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

As an Experienced Veterinary Assistant, you'll be a vital part of our medical team, supporting veterinarians and technicians in delivering top-quality care to patients with a wide range of needs.

Veterinary Assistant

Rye, NH ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Description Position at Sagamore Animal Hospital Veterinary Assistant Sagamore Animal Hospital - Rye, NH Are you ready to find your groove in a place where great medicine and genuinely good people go ...

Veterinary Assistant

Kittery, ME

$16 - $20/hr

Veterinary Assistant Piscataqua Animal Hospital - Kittery, ME Are you ready to make a splash in your veterinary career? At Piscataqua Animal Hospital in scenic Kittery, Maine, we're on the hunt for a ...

Veterinary Assistant

Kittery, ME ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant Piscataqua Animal Hospital - Kittery, ME Are you ready to make a splash in your veterinary career? At Piscataqua Animal Hospital in scenic Kittery, Maine, we're on ...

Veterinary Assistant

Kittery, ME ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Description Position at Piscataqua Animal Hospital Veterinary Assistant Piscataqua Animal Hospital - Kittery, ME Are you ready to make a splash in your veterinary career? At Piscataqua Animal ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Exeter, NH salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Exeter, NH is $17.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $19.33 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Exeter, NH? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Exeter, NH are:
What cities near Exeter, NH are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Exeter, NH with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Exeter, NH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,487 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant Training Program

Ethos Veterinary Health

Lawrence, MA โ€ข On-site

$15.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Veterinary Assistant | Starting at $15.75/hour
Location: Lawrence, Massachusetts
Schedule: Full-Time | Morning, afternoon, and evening shifts
Compensation: Starting at $15.75/hour + Increase after AVA Certification Completion
Bulger Veterinary Hospital is hiring full-time entry-level Veterinary Assistants to join our team in Lawrence, Massachusetts. This opportunity includes a paid 24-month veterinary training program designed for individuals looking to start a career in animal healthcare.
No previous veterinary hospital or animal experience is required. Through structured online learning, hands-on training, mentorship, and clinical experience, you'll develop foundational veterinary skills while working toward becoming a Level 1 Veterinary Technician within Ethos Veterinary Health.
Compensation
  • Starting at $15.75/hour
  • Compensation will increase by $1/hour within 30 days of successfully passing the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) exam
Full-Time Benefits:
  • Continuing Education & Uniform Allowance + Free VetBloom access (RACE-approved CE)
  • CVT/LVT/RVT license reimbursement
  • RECOVER Training for advanced CPR skills
  • Veterinary Technician Education Sponsorships + VTNE reimbursement + VTS Support
  • 16-Week VTNE Study Group
  • Professional Development Assistance
  • Generous PTO + Paid Holidays
  • Employee Referral Bonuses + Employee Pet Discount
  • Access exclusive financial benefits to help you save on student loans, mortgages, and personal loans
  • NVA Pet Resort Discount + Pet Insurance Discount
  • Medical, Dental, Vision + HSA/FSA Options
  • Insurance Options: Life and AD&D + Short & Long-Term Disability + Critical Illness + Accident + Hospital Indemnity
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Employee Assistance Program
Schedule
  • Full-time schedule
  • Combination of morning, afternoon, and evening shifts required
  • Holiday coverage required up to 3 holidays annually
Responsibilities
As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll support veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians, and hospital teams while learning foundational skills in patient care, animal handling, and veterinary medicine.
  • Maintain a safe and clean hospital environment, including laundry, floors, cages, and patient care areas
  • Assist with basic animal handling and restraint
  • Provide basic animal husbandry and patient hygiene support
  • Perform basic record-keeping procedures
  • Ensure proper stocking of medical supplies and hospital resources
  • Support veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians with daily patient care needs
  • Build strong communication skills while supporting clients, patients, and hospital teams
  • Maintain professionalism and compassion when caring for pets and interacting with clients
About the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) Program
  • This position includes enrollment in VetBloom's Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) program, a 6-month blended learning experience combining online education with hands-on veterinary training.
  • Through this program, you'll gain the knowledge and skills needed to sit for the national credentialing exam administered by VetMedTeam and overseen by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
  • After successfully passing the exam, you'll earn the credential of Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) and continue into the Next Step Veterinary Program.
About the Next Step Veterinary Program
The Next Step Veterinary Program is an 18-month advanced training program designed to help you progress from a Level 2 Veterinary Assistant to a Level 1 Veterinary Technician within Ethos Veterinary Health.
Training includes:
  • Patient Care & Medical Skills:
    • Perform nail trims, suture removals, and subcutaneous fluid administration
    • Administer oral, IM, SQ, and IV medications
    • Place IV catheters and perform venipuncture
    • Assist with surgical preparation and anesthesia machine setup
    • Conduct basic patient assessments and monitor vital signs
  • Surgical Support:
    • Clean and wrap surgical instruments
    • Prepare surgical packs and surgical suites
    • Maintain sterility using proper techniques
    • Assist with surgical procedures and postoperative patient care
  • Diagnostic & Laboratory Skills:
    • Perform ear cytology and basic diagnostic testing
    • Operate blood analyzing equipment and perform routine bloodwork analysis
    • Assist with ophthalmologic evaluations
    • Learn radiation safety protocols for imaging procedures
  • Client & Hospital Skills:
    • Communicate professionally with clients regarding patient care instructions
    • Maintain accurate medical records
    • Follow hospital safety and hygiene standards
    • Support proper medical waste disposal practices
  • Veterinary Knowledge Development:
    • Learn animal anatomy and common disease processes
    • Build understanding of veterinary pharmacology
    • Develop safe handling techniques for patients with various medical and behavioral needs
This comprehensive 24-month journey is designed to provide the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to grow as a veterinary professional.
Upon completing the 24-month training program at Bulger Veterinary Hospital, your employment will end. However, you will have the opportunity to apply for positions at any Ethos hospital, including Bulger, as a Level 1 Veterinary Technician, contingent upon successful completion of the program and passing all required assessments.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; candidates from vocational co-op programs will also be considered
  • No previous veterinary experience required
  • Interest in building a long-term career in veterinary medicine
  • Ability to complete online and hands-on training requirements
  • Ability to perform physical job functions including walking, standing, bending, sitting, writing, hearing, seeing, speaking, and lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Knowledge and practical application of basic arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division required
  • Positive attitude with self-awareness, authenticity, and compassion toward others
  • Strong teamwork skills and desire to support pets, clients, and colleagues
  • Fluent English speaking and reading skills required
About Bulger Veterinary Hospital
Bulger Veterinary Hospital is a multi-specialty and emergency veterinary hospital serving pets and families throughout Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. Our hospital offers advanced diagnostics, specialty medicine, surgery, emergency and critical care, and collaborative treatment planning across services.
We are committed to helping veterinary technicians continue growing their skills while practicing high-quality medicine in a supportive team environment.
Surrounding Areas
Bulger Veterinary Hospital attracts veterinary professionals from across northeastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, including:
  • Lawrence, MA & Andover, MA
  • North Andover, MA & Methuen, MA
  • Haverhill, MA & Lowell, MA
  • Dracut, MA & Tewksbury, MA
  • Salem, NH & Windham, NH
  • Nashua, NH & Derry, NH
  • Manchester, NH & Boston North Shore communities

Many of our team members commute from surrounding areas throughout the Merrimack Valley, Greater Boston, and southern New Hampshire.
Considering Relocating?
Great talent can come from anywhere, and we welcome candidates who are considering a move. Whether you're relocating from another city, another state, or across the country, our Talent Acquisition team is here to support you throughout the hiring process and answer questions about the role, the hospital, and the surrounding community.
About Ethos Veterinary Health
Ethos Veterinary Health, part of the NVA Group, is where you come to practice world-class medicine, and help shape what veterinary care becomes next.
Across our network of 140 specialty and emergency hospitals, science moves forward, standards are elevated, and innovation is put into practice every day. You'll work alongside respected veterinary leaders in academic-caliber hospitals designed for learning, teaching, and discovery.
Here, mentorship is a two-way street. You'll share your expertise, learn from others, and continue to grow, clinically, professionally, and personally.
At Ethos, you inspire hope, deliver exceptional care, and pursue veterinary medicine at its highest level, together.
Join Us
At Ethos, this isn't just a job, it's an opportunity to practice medicine at the highest level and help shape the future of veterinary care.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.