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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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Veterinary Assistant information

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$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Rochester, NY is $17.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.75 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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY? For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Licensed Veterinary Technician

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Perinton Veterinary Hospital

Victor, NY

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description

Licensed Veterinary Technician
Full-Time $5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS If you are passionate about anesthesia and more complex surgical procedures, Perinton Veterinary Hospital might be the right fit for you! At PVH, we don't just perform spays and neuters, we also perform a variety of more advanced surgeries such as: FHOs, extracapsular sutures, tibial evulsion fracture repair, limb amputations, splenectomy, analsaculectomy, and perineal urethrostomy (PU). To prioritize the highest quality patient care, we utilize a ventilator and epidurals for several of our procedures. We also have an oxygen kennel for more critical patients that require hospitalization and support. Our ideal candidate is passionate about animal care, highly motivated, and pays attention to detail. Our Veterinary Technicians are the heartbeat of our team and work side by side our Veterinarians (DVMs) during procedures. We are proud to be an AAHA-accredited practice, meeting the highest standards in veterinary medicine and patient care. Our team is committed to excellence, safety, and continuous improvement in everything we do. Role Responsibilities:
  • Support veterinarians to ensure quality veterinary care, advocate for pets, and educate clients.
    With each hospital function, assist veterinarians and the medical team to maximize productivity and maintain positive patient flow.
  • Assist with surgeries and procedures in accordance with your state's Veterinary Practice Act outlined for credentialed veterinary technicians.
  • Monitoring and assessing patient’s status 
  • Collecting blood and other samples for testing 
  • Placing catheters 
  • Communicate with clients about individualized pet health concerns and offer guidance on Thrive Membership options, medications, and additional treatments.
  • Assist in maintaining relevant, comprehensive medical records with the support of practice systems.
  • Obtain relevant health history and information from clients and maintain medical charts.
  • Use safe restraining techniques, follow standard protocols, and sustain clean, sterile, organized treatment areas, exam rooms, and labs.
  • Be willing to guide, mentor, and support fellow team members.
Experience & Skills Requirements:
  • Veterinary technician licensure required
  • 1-2 years of clinical experience
  • An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program preferred; or the equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, squatting, reach, standing, and walking throughout the day. 
You’ll Grow With Us Here, you can grow your career as best fits you through access to comprehensive learning and skillset programs. You can build your skills and earn credentials through:
  • Our vast, diverse, and free library of continuing education courses - ThriveU
  • Live, virtual interactive workshops to develop valuable leadership skills
  • A program to designed to teach you the fundamentals of running a pet hospital
  • Earn your AVMA-CVTEA Accreditation and become a Vet Tech through our fully accredited distance learning program for veterinary technicians
  • Scholarship opportunities and tuition reimbursement
And, with so many locations nationwide, you can find and move into any specialty, hospital type, or environment. Join us and provide your best care at a clinic that is deeply rooted within its community and bolstered by the resources of Thrive Pet Healthcare. Benefits – our care in action We provide benefits spread comprehensively across your mental, physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing designed to meet your needs as a unique individual. Some key benefits include:
  • Paid time off including 8-weeks of full-pay parental leave, bereavement to grieve both humans and pets, and time off for new pet adoptions
  • Top quality medical, dental, and vision insurance plus health savings account and flexible spending account
  • Pet perks including free exams, discounts on products and services, and more at all Thrive Pet Healthcare locations
  • Generously subsidized backup and ongoing care support for children, adults, and pets
  • Mental health benefits including coaching and therapy sessions
  • 401k with employer contribution with no waiting period to enroll and a one year waiting period for employer match
  • Continuing education and development support through our library of free CE courses and paid time off to complete
  • Scholarship opportunities and student loan support program and so much more!
Who We Are Thrive Pet Healthcare is united by our mission to create the future of pet well-being through medical excellence, innovative technology, and a connected community of teams and partners. We exist to nurture both pets and people through meaningful relationships and exceptional veterinary care. Our Support Office teams power that mission by supporting our hospitals through operational excellence, innovative programs, people-centered culture, and forward-thinking business solutions — all while having plenty of fun along the way. We nurture pets & people through meaningful relationships and exceptional pet care—and we are united by a shared set of values.
  • Service – delivering exceptional service
  • Empathy – leading with care
  • Accountability – achieve meaningful outcomes
  • Joy – be a source of light
  • Exploration – learn to fuel growth
  • Team – connect for success
Read more about us here.  Compensation negotiable based on credentials and experience with a hourly pay rate starting at $22-27/hour. $5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS. The actual rate offered will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
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