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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Lansdowne Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for Veterinary Assistants who are excited to fully utilize their skills in both surgery and outpatient care while making meaningful connections with clients and their ...

Thrive Germantown

Veterinary Assistant

Germantown, MD · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant Full-Time Thrive Pet Healthcare Germantown, MD About You You'll play an important role in pets' lives by providing end-to-end care for our precious patients. Your ...

Thrive Pet Healthcare

Veterinary Assistant

Germantown, MD · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant Full-Time Thrive Pet Healthcare Germantown, MD About You You'll play an important role in pets' lives by providing end-to-end care for our precious patients. Your ...

Value Vet

Veterinary Assistant - Virginia

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Value Vet is seeking Veterinary Assistants to join our dream team! We are in search of an upbeat, client focused, pet loving team member that can bring their skills and experience to our Falls Church ...

Value Vet

Veterinary Assistant - Virginia

Falls Church, VA

$16.75 - $21/hr

Value Vet is seeking Veterinary Assistants to join our dream team! We are in search of an upbeat, client focused, pet loving team member that can bring their skills and experience to our Falls Church ...

NVA

Veterinary Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

What You'll Do As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll work alongside our doctors and licensed technicians to deliver excellent patient care and keep the hospital running smoothly. Responsibilities include ...

Bond Vet

Veterinary Assistant - DMV - Fairfax

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Our Veterinary Assistants partner with our Veterinarians and Vet Techs to deliver exceptional care to our pets and pet parents. You will provide a high level of compassion as you interact with our ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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 pay.

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.

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.

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 handle animals safely are important for this role.

Is 30 too late to become a vet?

Veterinary assistants can start their careers at any age, and becoming a veterinarian typically requires completing a bachelor's degree and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which can be pursued at any age. Many people enter veterinary school later in life, so 30 is not too late to pursue a career in veterinary medicine or related roles in animal care.

Can I be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistants often do not need prior experience to start, 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 certifications or coursework in animal care.
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
Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant

Lansdowne Animal Hospital

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Lansdowne Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team!
This is an excellent opportunity for Veterinary Assistants who are excited to fully utilize their skills in both surgery and outpatient care while making meaningful connections with clients and their pets.
In this role, you will:
  • Assist with patient preparation and recovery during surgical and dental procedures.
  • Maintain detailed medical records to support accurate patient care.
  • Support exam room workflow by assisting with outpatient care, patient handling, and preparing for appointments.
  • Communicate with clients to check-in for appointments, review treatment plans, provide discharge instructions, and address questions with empathy and clarity.
  • Anticipate the needs of your team to maintain an efficient schedule while upholding the highest standards of patient care.

This position is ideal for Veterinary Assistants who enjoy engaging with clients and supporting outstanding patient care in a collaborative, team environment.
Schedule: This is a flexible position, open to full-time or part-time with varying schedule options and availability needed Monday-Friday with a possibility of adding rotating Saturdays in the future.
Full-time benefits and compensation**:
  • Compensation: $22 - 25 per hour, for each hour worked*
  • Bonus package: $500 for those with 3+ years of consecutive, current experience
  • Health package: Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life insurance and disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401k options
  • Paid time off in accordance with site policy and applicable law
  • Personal pet discount

Minimum qualifications and skill set:
  • 2+ years of experience in a veterinary assistant, animal care, kennel assistant, or related role preferred
  • Proficiency in the following skills:
    • Radiology
    • Surgery setup & assisting
    • Phlebotomy
    • SQ Injections
    • Lab Sample collection
    • Inpatient & outpatient care

Why You‘ll Love Lansdowne Animal Hospital
Located in historic Leesburg, VA, our small animal practice combines the warmth of a neighborhood clinic with the capabilities of a modern medical facility. With a full-time doctor and plans to grow, we handle a mix of surgeries and dentistry-including spays, neuters, cystotomies, amputations, and more-while maintaining a strong emphasis on outpatient care and client relationships.
Our team values open communication, mutual support, and true work-life balance-offering a consistent schedule, no weekends, and time built in for lunch and catch-up. Plus, you‘ll be part of a practice that gives back to the community, supporting organizations like the Loudoun Pet Pantry, Loudoun County Animal Shelter, Loudoun Community Cat Coalition, and Pets for Patriots.
If you‘re looking for a role where your skills are valued and your well-being matters, we‘d love to have you join our team.
*To determine specific pay Company will consider the following factors: the applicant‘s education, training, or experience related to the job position, geographic location where the work is performed, and other relevant factors. **During the process, you may request more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location where the work is performed. Where required under applicable law, WVP provides eligible employees with leave, and similar benefits programs, all in accordance with state and local law. WVP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state or local laws. WVP will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. Qualified Applicants with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations under applicable state and local law, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact People Operations, if you need assistance completing the application process.
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