ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Lethbridge, AB (NOW HIRING)

Kolk Farms Ltd

Barn Crew

Iron Springs, AB · On-site

ACFA conventions, AWC West, veterinarian seminars, cattle handling, PAL, and Green certificate are ... Cattle Care & Handling: Assist with the safe and efficient handling, moving, sorting, tagging ...

Kolk Farms Ltd

Barn Crew

Iron Springs, AB · On-site

ACFA conventions, AWC West, veterinarian seminars, cattle handling, PAL, and Green certificate are ... Assist with the safe and efficient handling, moving, sorting, tagging, weighing, processing ...

KPMG

Team Administrative Assistant

Lethbridge, AB

KPMG is looking for an Administrative Assistant who can provide support on a range of activities to ensure a high-quality product. What you will do * Manage reception responsibilities, including ...

All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Lethbridge, AB

Veterinary Assistant information

See Lethbridge, AB salary details

$7

$13

$18

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Lethbridge, AB is $13.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.26 and $15.02 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 cities near Lethbridge, AB are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Lethbridge, AB with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Lethbridge, AB as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $27,899 per year, or $13.4 per hour.

Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

P3 Veterinary Partners

Lethbridge, AB • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Are you looking to fully utilize your RVT skills and make an impact in the Lethbridge community? Are you searching for a welcoming team that is passionate about preventative medicine and client education?
 
Find everything you're looking for at Chinook Pet Clinic, a well-respected Veterinary practice in Lethbridge focused exclusively on canine and feline medicine. We provide high quality, compassionate care, and are excited to add our next RVT team member to our fun and hard-working team.
 
Full-time and part-time schedules available, and with NO ON CALL - you'll feel empowered to achieve the work-life balance you've been searching for!
 
The perfect fit would be a kind and compassionate RVT who enjoys practicing to a high quality of care. Our team is ready to support somebody that appreciates the benefits of a collaborative and progressive work environment. We work hard and have fun together every day, so it's important that we identify someone with a cheerful and amiable disposition that shares our enthusiasm for convivial teamwork. We take pride in the dynamic and supportive culture we have fostered, and look forward to nurturing the establishment of our next colleague and friend. If you are looking for a progressive environment where each individual is heard, and recognized for their unique contributions, we'd love to talk.
 
Key Duties & Responsibilities
  • Communicate in a compassionate and professional manner with clients and fellow veterinary care team members using efficient oral and written communication skills.
  • Administer and analyze diagnostic tests (hematology, clinical chemistry, cytology, urinalysis, etc.) utilizing appropriate equipment and techniques.
  • Assist Veterinarian with surgical and therapeutic procedures. Utilize gold-standard patient care techniques, ensuring operating room environment complies with all aseptic standards and protocols.
  • Administer and monitor anesthesia and analgesia in accordance with the veterinary scope of practice and provincial laws governing the RVT profession.
  • Provide excellent veterinary nursing care in a professional and ethical manner through the synthesis of veterinary theory, principles and concepts (including Fear Free techniques) within the scope of regulations dictated by the provincial governing laws of the profession.
  • Document and maintain accurate veterinary medical records, following regulated procedures and standards.
  • Operate and maintain state-of-the-art veterinary medical equipment, following health and safety regulations in accordance with veterinary profession standards.
  • Execute and evaluate quality diagnostic images utilizing knowledge of theory, principles and concepts.
  • Perform dental procedures in compliance with professional veterinary industry standards, employing an in-depth knowledge of dental structures, conditions and lesions, causes and stages of diseases.
  • Manage multiple priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Maintain an appropriate inventory of all medical supplies as determined by veterinary office inventory control procedures.
  • Maintain and support a collaborative work environment and assist other staff members as required.
Education
  • Diploma - Veterinary Technician/Technologist

Total Compensation - We recognize how critical RVTs are to providing the best possible medical, surgical, and preventative medicine. We prove this by supporting your personal, financial, and professional growth through:
  • A Competitive Wage Rate
  • A Comprehensive Health Benefits Package (Medical, Dental, & Vision premiums paid by clinic)
  • Professional Services Coverage (chiropractor, massage therapist, physiotherapist, acupuncturist and more)
  • Enhanced Mental Health Practitioner Coverage
  • P3 Pawsitive Health & Lifestyle Spending Account
  • RRSP Matching
  • Unlimited Continuing Education (CE) funds for advanced professional development plus three days of paid leave to attend CE
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Licensing & Membership Dues
  • Paid Vacation Time
  • Paid Sick & Personal Emergency Days
  • Generous Veterinary Discounts (75% off services for your own pets, and an extended family and friends discount)
  • Clothing Allowance
  • Relocation Allowance to assist with moving expenses can be arranged for out-of-town candidates 

If you are looking for a progressive environment where each individual is heard, and recognized for their unique contributions, we'd love to talk.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing a respectful, inclusive, and diverse workplace.
 
Visit our website at: www.chinookpetcliniclethbridge.ca
  
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply