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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$17 - $21.25/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 ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

South Riding, VA · On-site

$18.40 - $23.51/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 ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Greenbelt, MD

$18.40 - $23.51/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 ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$15.75 - $20/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 ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

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$17

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How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Reston, VA is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the top pay for a veterinary assistant?

The top pay for a veterinary assistant typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, with some experienced or specialized assistants earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of veterinary practice, and additional certifications may lead to higher compensation.

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 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 are veterinary assistants?

Veterinary assistants are animal care professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Their duties include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, cleaning and disinfecting kennels and exam rooms, and assisting with handling animals during examinations or procedures. They may also help with administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and maintaining records. Veterinary assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of veterinary facilities.

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 you be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistants can often start with little or no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are important, and some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships can improve job prospects and performance in this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a vet 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. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,307 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant

National Veterinary Associates

Leesburg, VA

$16 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Catoctin Veterinary Clinic, a long-standing small animal practice serving Leesburg and Loudoun County since 1978, is looking for an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our growing team. If you're passionate about veterinary medicine, love working with animals, and want to be part of a supportive, dedicated, and fun hospital culture, we'd love to meet you!

Our clinic prides itself on teamwork, excellent patient care, and a culture where every person genuinely wants to be here. We're excited to welcome the next great member of our team.



What We Offer:

  • Competitive hourly rate: $16-$20/hour based on experience
  • Flexible scheduling: 4x10-hour shifts
  • Only 2 weekend shifts per month
  • Starbucks Fridays!
  • Scrub allowance & pet care discounts after 90 days
  • Full NVA benefits package: medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO & more
  • Career growth:
    • Education opportunities to become an LVT after 1 year
    • Access to high-quality training and mentorship from our skilled medical team
  • Fun team culture: brewery outings, Top Golf, holiday events
  • Community involvement: Loudoun Pet Expo, Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival, and client education seminars
 

What You'll Do:

As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll play a key role in patient care and daily hospital operations, helping our team provide exceptional service to pets and clients.


You will be responsible for:

  • Safely and confidently restraining dogs and cats using low-stress, fear-aware techniques
  • Supporting veterinarians and technicians during exams, diagnostics, treatments, and procedures
  • Understanding animal behavior and recognizing stress signals
  • Maintaining clean and organized exam rooms, treatment areas, and equipment
  • Handling basic laboratory tasks and patient care duties
  • Providing compassionate client communication and support

What We're Looking For:

  • Minimum 1 year of experience as a Veterinary Assistant
  • Strong understanding of restraint, animal behavior, and proper handling techniques
  • A positive attitude and strong teamwork skills
  • Ability to multitask in a busy small animal hospital
  • Compassion, professionalism, and a dedication to patient care
  • Someone who values learning, growth, and collaboration
 

Why Catoctin Veterinary Clinic?

Our hospital is entering a phase of positive growth and evolution. With a long-standing reputation in the Leesburg community and a collaborative medical staff, Catoctin is the perfect place to grow your veterinary career, especially if you're considering becoming an LVT in the future.



Join a Team That Truly Cares

If you're an experienced Veterinary Assistant looking for a hospital with excellent culture, flexibility, growth opportunities, and meaningful work, Catoctin Veterinary Clinic is the place for you.

Apply today or reach out directly to learn more about joining our team!

 
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About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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