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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Whitby, ON (NOW HIRING)

Registered Veterinary Technician - Veterinary Office located in Aurora Our busy veterinary practice is now looking for a Registered Veterinary Technician to join our amazing team. If you are seeking ...

Registered Veterinary Technician - Veterinary Office located in Aurora Our busy veterinary practice is now looking for a Registered Veterinary Technician to join our amazing team. If you are seeking ...

Registered Veterinary Technician - Veterinary Office located in Aurora Our busy veterinary practice is now looking for a Registered Veterinary Technician to join our amazing team. If you are seeking ...

Registered Veterinary Technician - Veterinary Office located in Aurora Our busy veterinary practice is now looking for a Registered Veterinary Technician to join our amazing team. If you are seeking ...

Veterinary Hospital Manager/RVT - Weston Veterinary Clinic We are excited to start the process of finding a true people person with a passion for animals and veterinary medicine. That special someone ...

Veterinary Hospital Manager

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$30 - CA$40/hr

Veterinary Hospital Manager/RVT - Weston Veterinary Clinic We are excited to start the process of finding a true people person with a passion for animals and veterinary medicine. That special someone ...

Veterinary Hospital Manager/RVT - Weston Veterinary Clinic We are excited to start the process of finding a true people person with a passion for animals and veterinary medicine. That special someone ...

Veterinary Hospital Manager/RVT - Weston Veterinary Clinic We are excited to start the process of finding a true people person with a passion for animals and veterinary medicine. That special someone ...

At Juno Veterinary, we are on a mission to ensure every pet and Juno team member has the support they need to thrive. Our ultimate vision is to establish a stellar standard for the veterinary ...

At Juno Veterinary, we are on a mission to ensure every pet and Juno team member has the support they need to thrive. Our vision? To establish a stellar standard of care for the veterinary industry ...

Showing results 21-40

Veterinary Assistant information

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

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 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 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 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 cities near Whitby, ON are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Whitby, ON with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Whitby, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

National Veterinary Associates

Toronto, ON • On-site

CA$27 - CA$30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


National Veterinary Associates rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 53 rated veterinary


Job description

Are you a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) who enjoys wagging tails, tiny toe beans, and practicing high-quality medicine? McGilvray Veterinary Hospital might be the perfect fit. We're currently looking for a permanent full-time RVT to join our team. As an AAHA-accredited hospital with modern equipment, we're committed to excellent patient care-while also creating a work environment that feels positive and rewarding every day.

We're a close-knit team of veterinary professionals who truly have each other's backs. We celebrate the little wins just as much as the big ones, and we lead with compassion in everything we do. Strong skills are important to us, and we also value the kind of person who will grow with us and help strengthen the supportive, positive culture we've built.

We Offer:
* Competitive salary ($27- $30 hourly based on experience)
* Great health benefits
* RRSP Matching
*Paid OAVT annual dues
*CE opportunities
* Wellness allowance
* Generous staff pet care discounts

What We're Looking For:
* RVT in good standing with the OAVT or working towards your designation.
* Strong technical skills (anesthesia, radiography, dentistry, patient care)
* Excellent communication and people skills
* A heart full of empathy
* Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment

If you're an RVT who's passionate, driven, and looking for a place that truly values what you bring to the table, we'd love to meet you! Apply today and reach out to mary.pecarski@nva.com with any questions you may have.


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About National Veterinary Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

National Veterinary Associates, based in Agoura Hills, CA, US, is a leading provider in the veterinary healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it operates independently owned veterinary practices across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With a passion for pet health, National Veterinary Associates supports over 1000 veterinary hospitals and pet resort entities. Though their website, nva.com, doesn't explicitly describe their mission, it is evident that their aim is to empower veterinarians with the resources they need to provide high-quality, compassionate pet care services. They have made remarkable strides in advancing veterinary medicine, which is a testament to their industry influence and commitment.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

Year founded

1996