ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Veterinary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oxford Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Oxford, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant * Status: Full-time * Salary: Negotiable and based on experience * Schedule: 4-day work week (10-hour shifts). No nights, weekends, or holiday hours! Benefits ...

Oxford Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Oxford, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant * Status: Full-time * Salary: Negotiable and based on experience * Schedule: 4-day work week (10-hour shifts). No nights, weekends, or holiday hours! Benefits ...

Ethos Veterinary Health

Veterinary Assistant

Spokane, WA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant INLAND EMPIRE VETERINARY IMAGING, P.S. 21 East Mission Avenue, Spokane, WA 99202 - Jeff Siems, MS, DVM, DACVR Inland Empire Veterinary Imaging is looking for an ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs

Veterinary Assistant information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 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 cities are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? The top employers for Veterinary Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Veterinary Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Veterinary Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs are:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Mansfield Veterinary Hospital

Columbus, NJ

$16 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off

We are seeking a compassionate Veterinary Assistant to join the team full-time (about 40 hours a week) at our successful animal hospital. Veterinary Assistant responsibilities include assisting the Veterinarian with appointments, coordinating animal care, preparing medications, reviewing records, and completing/updating medical records. You will work closely with the entire hospital staff to ensure the health and well-being of all of our pet patients. If you are passionate about providing exceptional animal care, wed like to meet you.
We are open on weekends and employees are scheduled for weekend shifts.
Responsibilities
  • Triage pets as they arrive at the clinic
  • Interview pet owners to obtain a patient history
  • Take vital signs
  • Assist with appointments
  • Keep accurate patient records
Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a Veterinary Assistant or in a similar role required
  • Knowledge of animal care and handling
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to multi-task and remain organized in a busy environment
  • Patience and a love for animals
  • Knowledge of Avimark a plus
Benefits/Perks
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Fun Working Environment
  • Interact with Pets