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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

CareVet

Veterinary Technician / Assistant

Reeseville, WI

$16 - $20/hr

Veterinary Technician / Assistant CJ Haase Veterinary amp; Immunology Services Reeseville, WI We believe in a Whole Person Approach when it comes to our veterinary teams. This includes a living wage ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI

Veterinary Assistant information

See Madison, WI salary details

$10

$17

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How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Madison, WI is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.13 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.
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Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Madison, WI 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 $36,133 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Certified Veterinary Technician - Emergency Overnights - $5,000 Sign-on Bonus

Madison Veterinary Specialists

Monona, WI

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Madison Veterinary Specialists is a growing 24/7 comprehensive, state-of-the-art emergency and AAHA Accredited Specialty Referral hospital partnering with family veterinarians to provide compassionate care for companion animals when they need us most. Plus pays a competitive wage with the highest shift differentials and a $5,000 signing bonus!

If expecting the unexpected is your strength, this is the service for you! This highly dynamic team works with our internship-trained emergency veterinarians to provide critical care when our patients need us most. You will fully utilize and grow your skills by learning RECOVER CPR and advanced procedures in this service while being supported by a team of veterinary assistants and kennel assistants.

Madison Veterinary Specialists is seeking full time Certified Veterinary Technicians to join our Emergency department. Previous experience is preferred.

Our ideal candidate possesses the following skills:

  • Ability to work in a collaborative team setting
  • Good communication skills and enjoy working with people
  • Enjoy learning new skills and exploring new technologies
  • Willingness to participate in additional training programs
  • Provide input and assist with all aspects of patient care
  • Excel in technical nursing skills including but not limited to: Venipuncture and Catheter placement.
  • Ability to obtain accurate radiology views
  • Effective anesthesia monitoring
  • Physical examinations and patient assessments
  • Good Laboratory skill set including but not limited to: Manual differentials, UA
  • Possess or demonstrate desire to obtain a solid understanding of the common medication used within an emergency & specialty practice
  • Provide compassionate and timely care for our hospitalized patients

Madison Veterinary Specialists & Emergency provides a fast-paced and collaborative environment. We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of medical care along with excellent customer service. We offer extensive internal training for each position with competitive wages and benefits packages including medical insurance, flexible scheduling, a 401K match plan, uniforms, and continuing education allowance, as well as discounted pricing for your pet’s care. Wage commensurate with skill and experience. Overnight shifts include a differential pay premium.

If you are a licensed veterinary technician looking for the perfect opportunity to hone and expand your skills, such as pursuing your VTS, with a growing practice, forward your resume today!

To learn more about our hospital visit mvsvets.com or like us on Facebook.

Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug Free Workplace.

Job Type: Full-time

Qualifications:

  • Current State licensure as a Certified/Registered/Licensed Veterinary Technician or demonstrate the ability to complete VTNE test within 6 months of employment.
  • Prior experience in an emergency and/or specialists' practice is a plus
  • 1+ years' experience as a Certified Veterinary Technician or veterinary assistant preferred
  • Knowledge of ImproMed software a plus
  • Physical: Must have the strength and stamina to work on feet throughout shift and lift up to 30 pounds.
  • Ergonomic: An employee in this position must be capable of safely working in environment with potential exposure to hazardous materials, infectious and zoonotic diseases.
  • Other: An employee in this position must have a strong sense of helping clients and caring for animals and to assist with emergency or critical-care patients as needed. Maintain strict confidence regarding client and patient information. Ability to multi-task and prioritize.

Education:

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Formal Veterinary Technology education or similar degree preferred

Apply