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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Foster, RI (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Plainville, MA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Veterinary Technician Assistant - Dewitt Animal Hospital Dewitt Animal Hospital Plainville, Massachusetts Join A Great Collaborative Team!! Dewitt Animal Hospital is under new management, and we are ...

We are seeking an organized, compassionate, and service-oriented Veterinary Technician or Assistant who is confident in rooming patients, assisting in surgery, placing IV catheters, drawing blood and ...

We are seeking an organized, compassionate, and service-oriented Veterinary Technician or Assistant who is confident in rooming patients, assisting in surgery, placing IV catheters, drawing blood and ...

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Plainville, MA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Veterinary Technician Assistant - Dewitt Animal Hospital Dewitt Animal Hospital Plainville, Massachusetts Join A Great Collaborative Team!! Dewitt Animal Hospital is under new management, and we are ...

Showing results 21-40

Veterinary Assistant information

See Foster, RI salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Foster, RI is $18.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.43 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.

What cities near Foster, RI are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Foster, RI with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Foster, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,584 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

$25K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description
Position at Bay State Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Services
Veterinary Technician Assistant
If you are a veterinary assistant ready to take your career to the next level, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for! Our career development program offers those who demonstrate an interest in learning, reliability, and a commitment to success, with the opportunity for training and career progression through five levels of technician assistant. Each level combines new skill development with increased responsibility. We also offer additional career development opportunities such as our in-house veterinary technician training program run in conjunction with our sister hospital - Ocean State Veterinary Specialists. Full-time schedule available within the specialty services including surgery, oncology, and internal medicine. All schedules require regular evening and weekend shifts, as well as rotating holiday shifts. Full time positions carry a generous benefits package.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
  • Deliver exceptional customer service to pet owners in a polite and timely manner
  • Laboratory Sample Processing for various patients thru the specialty services
  • Assist Technicians with patient treatments such as vital signs and general patient monitoring
  • Assisting Technicians and Veterinarians with radiographs
  • Performing various handling techniques for our technicians and veterinarians to perform examinations and treatments
  • Preparing for specialty procedures to assist technicians and veterinarians
  • Opportunities to learn and advance as a technician's assistant with our designed level learning system
  • Opportunity to be welcomed to our Tech Assistant to Tech In House Program after successfully reaching all technician assistant levels over the course of time in our hospital

Qualifications:
  • 1 or more years' experience in a veterinary practice (receptionist, vet assistant, other)
  • Professional, pleasant, engaged, clear communicator who is attentive and respectful to referring veterinarians, clients, and co-workers.
  • Must be able to follow direction, balance multiple tasks, be confident, and prioritize tasks appropriately.
  • Must possess basic math skills and understanding of medical terminology
  • Willingness to learn veterinary technical skills a plus

Benefits and Perks (for Full Time):
  • Employer paid Medical insurance premiums, AND paid deductible for employees!
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance options
  • 401K with company match
  • Complimentary Life Insurance $25,000
  • Personal Pet Discounts
  • PTO and Holiday pay
  • Company Sponsored Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Veterinary Social Worker on-site
  • Ample paid CE opportunities on-site, as well as CE stipend for Certified Technicians
  • Compensation: $15.50 to $19/hour, wage determined based on formal education and experience
    • Plus shift differential of $3 to $5/hour beginning at 8pm

Bay State Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Services provides excellent Emergency care, Internal Medicine, Oncology and Surgery services. The exceptional group of doctors, nurses and support staff are not only great at their job but are also genuine animal lovers. Visit our website at https://bsvess.com to learn more about Bay State Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Services.
We are a proud United Veterinary Care Partner hospital. United Veterinary Care supports the unique culture and individuality of each partner hospital while empowering the hospital teams in their care for patients. One of our goals is to support our community of hospitals in creating sustainable, fulfilling careers in a profession we love.
United Veterinary Care provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.