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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Animal Dermatology Group

Veterinary Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. The Role: In this position, you aren't just "helping out" - you are a vital part of the medical process. You will work closely ...

NVA

Veterinary Assistant

Redlands, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

The veterinary assistant is the entire team's primary support. Every department relies on their significant role in aiding with a variety of services to provide excellent client and patient care.

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$19 - $29/hr

We are looking for a Veterinary Assistant join our team! Location: 8290 E Crystal Dr, Anaheim, CA 92807 Salary: $19 $29 per hour Schedule: 4x10-hour shifts, 1 weekend day required VCA Yorba is a busy ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Veterinary Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Riverside, CA is $17.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 coursework or certifications. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

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 training 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.

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 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 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.

Is becoming a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform basic animal care, assist veterinarians, and often work in clinics or animal hospitals. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and offers opportunities for on-the-job training, with job growth driven by increasing pet ownership and demand for veterinary services.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs

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The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Riverside, CA are:

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Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,411 per year, or $18 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant - Emergency

VCA Animal Hospitals

Murrieta, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 657 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

At VCA California Veterinary Specialists - Murrieta, we want you to be fulfilled in your role as a Veterinary Assistant, and each person's individual skill set, personality, and career goals are highly valued.
Location: 39809 Avenida Acacias, Suite E, Murrieta, CA 92563
Salary: $20 to $24 per hour
Schedule: Wednesday - Saturday, 4 hours, 10-hour work week, 6 AM - 4:30 PM
We focus on delivering specialized, compassionate veterinary care to our community. Our mission is to combine the latest advances in medicine, science, and technology to diagnose, treat, and enhance the quality of life of our patients. This is what we call Special Care from the Heart.
Why We Want You
As a member of the VCA team, you will help create and maintain a positive, low-stress atmosphere for our clients and patients. Your mission will be to win the confidence of every pet parent-by delivering an outstanding client experience-so we can provide exceptional care to every patient.
Whether you are a seasoned Veterinary Assistant or a Technician in training, we want you to use the knowledge that you've invested your time and talent in. The skills that will be utilized include, but are not limited to:
  • Patient Handling
  • Assisting in Patient Treatments
  • Client education and care
  • Support for the client service team
  • Equipment Maintenance

Why Join The VCA Family?
VCA Animal Hospitals offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including Medical/Dental/Vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, pet care discounts, paid vacation, holidays, and sick days, health and well-being programs that provide resources and training. Compensation is negotiable based on education, experience, and other relevant credentials.
Apply Today!
If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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