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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Rutherfordton, NC (NOW HIRING)

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Technician

Inman, SC · On-site

An experienced Veterinary Assistant with a minimum of 1-year experience preferred. * Compassionate, Calm, Team Player, Multi-Tasker and Strong Communicator * Must be able to properly restrain pets.

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Technician

Inman, SC · On-site

An experienced Veterinary Assistant with a minimum of 1-year experience preferred. * Compassionate, Calm, Team Player, Multi-Tasker and Strong Communicator * Must be able to properly restrain pets.

Creature Comforts

Veterinary Technician

Inman, SC

An experienced Veterinary Assistant with a minimum of 1-year experience preferred. * Compassionate, Calm, Team Player, Multi-Tasker and Strong Communicator * Must be able to properly restrain pets.

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Receptionist

Inman, SC · On-site

$14/hr

Company Description Creature Comforts Veterinary Resort and Suites, Inc. (CCVRS) is the vision of Craig and Donna Lambert. Dr. Lambert began Creature Comforts Veterinary House Call Service in 2001 ...

Creature Comforts

Veterinary Receptionist

Inman, SC

Company Description Creature Comforts Veterinary Resort and Suites, Inc. (CCVRS) is the vision of Craig and Donna Lambert. Dr. Lambert began Creature Comforts Veterinary House Call Service in 2001 ...

EverVet Partners

Associate Veterinarian

Landrum, SC

$250/day

Discounted Veterinary Care * Health Savings Account * Group Life and AD&D * Supplemental Life Insurance * Disability Insurance The Softer Stuff: * Employee Assistant Program available 24 hours a day ...

Inman Animal Hospital

Associate Veterinarian

Inman, SC · On-site

$155K/yr

Veterinary Diagnostics * Digital Radiography * Wellness & Preventive Care * Client Communication & Education * Clinical Decision-Making * Medical Record Documentation * Team Collaboration

Inman Animal Hospital

Associate Veterinarian

Inman, SC · On-site

$155K/yr

Veterinary Diagnostics * Digital Radiography * Wellness & Preventive Care * Client Communication & Education * Clinical Decision-Making * Medical Record Documentation * Team Collaboration

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Rutherfordton, NC salary details

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How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Rutherfordton, NC is $15.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $16.63 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 Rutherfordton, NC? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Rutherfordton, NC are:
What cities near Rutherfordton, NC are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Rutherfordton, NC with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Rutherfordton, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,369 per year, or $15.1 per hour.
Veterinary Assistant Hendersonville Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Assistant Hendersonville Veterinary Hospital

Hendersonville Veterinary Hospital

Hendersonville, NC • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Practice
At Hendersonville Veterinary Hospital, we've been serving our amazing community since the 1960s, and we've only just begun. We recently just moved into a brand new, state-of-the-art facility! Our 5,000 square foot building includes 8 exam rooms and a dual dental suite, just to name a couple of the many new amenities!
Over the last ten years, we have upgraded our x-ray equipment, added a laser surgical unit, received American Hospital Association Accreditation, and added state-of-the-art dental equipment and a digital dental x-ray unit. Our in-house laboratory now includes Heska benchtop serum chemical analyzers, a fecal centrifuge, EKG, and blood pressure machines.
More about the Role
The Veterinary Assistant assists the veterinarians and technicians with patient care and treatment, monitors hospitalized pets, maintains inventory, prepares prescriptions, performs routine in-house laboratory work, educates clients regarding veterinary care and procedures, and assists with surgical procedures.
Competencies
  • Patience & Compassion: Remaining professional while still making teammates, clients, and patients feel as comfortable as possible regardless of the situation or challenges presented. Responding quickly and calmly to crisis while maintaining a high standard of patient care.
  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Carefully coordinating actions with veterinarians and practice team members. Providing feedback appropriately and in a timely manner. Quickly incorporating feedback to ensure positive results. Sharing ideas and being open to other's ideas.
  • Communicating: Conveying instructions to clients and teammates to ensure successful patient care.
  • Active Listening: Following the instructions of veterinarians and sometimes patient owners. Picking up the needs of veterinarians and teammates based on prior experiences and feedback.
  • Organization Skills: Clear tracking of lab specimens, medications, patient instructions, workflow, and other job-related items while managing multiple patients and clients.
  • Client Satisfaction: Ensuring all activities and interactions result in the highest level of client satisfaction.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Assist veterinarians in the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery and other tasks as needed.
  • Assist veterinarians in outpatient exams by taking histories, vital signs, and weights, as well as providing client education.
  • Prepare patients for surgery and monitor vital signs of the patient during surgery.
  • Obtain blood, stool, and other samples; perform in-hospital laboratory testing and prepare specimens for outside laboratories.
  • Take, develop, and maintain radiographs following proper safety procedures.
  • Provide basic animal handling and restrain animals during exams.
  • Administer and monitor medications, anesthesia, vaccines, and treatments at the discretion of the veterinarian.
  • Clean and straighten exam rooms, treatment, and lab areas; restock exam rooms with supplies. Assist other team members to keep the public areas of the practice clean; clean and maintain all medical equipment.
  • Demonstrate warmth, courtesy and professionalism in all interactions with clients; exercise compassion and care in all interactions with patients.
  • Communicate with veterinarians and practice team members including client discussions, patient plans, client concerns, etc.
  • Any other duties as assigned.

Requirements/Qualifications
  • Ability to work on weekends as required
  • Previous veterinary experience required (minimum of 1 year)
  • Ability to lift patients and carry equipment up to 25 pounds; ability to lift patients or carry equipment over 25 pounds with assistance
  • Practice OSHA safety techniques including proper PPE
  • Basic math and the ability to calculate medication dosages
  • Basic computer skills, familiarity with MS office applications, etc.
  • Strong communication skills to ensure patient safety

Benefits Offered
  • Paid time off
  • Health insurance; dental insurance; vision insurance
  • Retirement benefits or accounts
  • Bonus incentive
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Career and professional development
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Benefits offered may vary depending on full or part time employment status according to company policy.
Pay Range
USD $17.00 - USD $20.00 /Hr.

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