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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Vetcelerator

Veterinarian Assistant

Springfield, VA · On-site

$23/hr

Are you an experienced Veterinary Assistant who enjoys hands-on patient care, teamwork, and working in a clinic where people actually respect what you bring to the table? Colonial Animal Hospital is ...

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 ...

Petco

Vetco Veterinary Assistant Part Time

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

As a Vetco Veterinary Assistant, you will meet your veterinary team at our local dispatch office, then travel to your assigned Petco clinic locations for the day. At the clinics, your team of ...

Petco

Vetco Veterinary Assistant Part Time

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

As a Vetco Veterinary Assistant, you will meet your veterinary team at our local dispatch office, then travel to your assigned Petco clinic locations for the day. At the clinics, your team of ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA

Veterinary Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 - Primary Care

Veterinary Assistant - Primary Care

Friendship Hospital for Animals

Washington, DC • On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Friendship Hospital for Animals, a leading AAHA- accredited hospital located in Washington D.C. is seeking eager and capable veterinary assistants to join our Primary Care team. If you're dedicated to excellent patient care and enjoy being part of a collaborative, diverse team - we'd love to meet you!
About the role:
The ideal candidate will support the Primary Care department in multiple capacities, including but not limited to, patient restraint, assisting with doctors and technicians with various tasks, and is overall excited to learn and grow their skillset. This person is reliable and professional with clients as well as peers, and enjoys working as part of a collaborative team.
Schedule: Four 10-hour shifts with a rotating Saturday. This is a full time position.
What's in it for you?
  • Excellent compensation
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, HAS/FSA
  • Generous PTO and CE allowance
  • Life insurance and 401k with a company match
  • Metro discounts with easy access to public transportation
  • Access to advanced tools (MRI, CT, ventilator, ICU, dialysis)
  • A welcoming, inclusive culture that values learning, kindness, and teamwork
  • Pet care discounts and so much more!

Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a veterinary assistant preferred.
  • Veterinary assistant certification preferred but not required.

We're exclusively seeking veterinary professionals who embrace a nurturing, cooperative, and ethical environment, where genuine individuals come together to share knowledge, uplift one another, grow, and do their best work - while having fun along the way.
Friendship Hospital for Animals is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Ready to join the team?
Apply now or learn more at friendshiphospital.com
US Pay Range
$22-$23 USD

Apply