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Veterinary Helper Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

  • Medical

  • PTO

You'll be supported by a skilled team of veterinarians, RVTs, assistants, and client care professionals who help make high-quality medicine possible every day. We offer a desirable 4-on, 3-off ...

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Veterinary Helper information

What is a veterinary helper?

Veterinary helpers, also known as veterinary assistants, support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. They are responsible for tasks such as feeding and bathing animals, cleaning cages, sterilizing equipment, and assisting with basic animal care under supervision. Their work ensures that animals are comfortable and that medical procedures run smoothly. Veterinary helpers play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of veterinary facilities, allowing veterinarians to focus on diagnosing and treating animals. They may also interact with pet owners, providing information and reassurance as needed.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a veterinary helper?

To thrive as a Veterinary Helper, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, basic lab equipment, and animal restraint tools is commonly required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills help you support veterinarians and reassure pet owners. These skills ensure safe, efficient animal care and contribute to a positive environment for both animals and staff.

What are common challenges veterinary helpers face when assisting with animal care and clinic operations?

Veterinary Helpers often encounter challenges such as handling anxious or aggressive animals, maintaining a clean and sanitized environment, and managing multiple tasks during busy appointment times. They must be prepared for physically demanding work, including lifting animals and standing for extended periods. Additionally, Veterinary Helpers work closely with veterinarians and technicians, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions to ensure the well-being of both patients and staff.

What is the difference between Veterinary Helper vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary HelperVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, kennels, farmsVeterinary clinics, hospitals, specialty practices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with animal care, cleaning, feeding, basic restraintPerform diagnostic tests, administer medications, assist during surgeries

Veterinary Helpers typically have minimal formal education and focus on basic animal care tasks, working under supervision. Veterinary Technicians have specialized training and perform more complex medical procedures, often working more independently. Both roles are essential in animal healthcare but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of practice.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Alberta?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Alberta are:

What cities in Alberta are hiring for Veterinary Helper jobs?

Cities in Alberta with the most Veterinary Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Helper job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Veterinary Technologist Assistant - Surgery

Pulse Veterinary Specialists & Emergency

Sherwood Park, AB • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Veterinary Technologist Assistant (TA) plays a key role in supporting the surgical veterinary team through hands-on clinical assistance, patient care, and client-facing administrative coordination. This is a hybrid role that combines traditional surgical support responsibilities with surgical coordination and client communication to help ensure smooth workflow and an exceptional patient and client experience.

The Surgical TA reports to the Lead Specialty Registered Veterinary Technologist (RVT) and works collaboratively with Dr. Bruce, Dr. Gilbert, the Surgical Support team, and other specialty services to support the delivery of high-quality patient care and efficient surgical operations.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, confident in client communication, and thrives in a fast-paced specialty environment. They value a collaborative, collegial culture and contribute to the hospital’s strategy, commitments, and goals.


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provide exceptional patient care and support a high standard of compassion and professionalism.
  • Prepare surgical suites, including room set-up, efficient turnover between procedures, and thorough post-procedure clean-up.
  • Perform decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, and proper storage of surgical instruments and supplies.
  • Conduct quality assurance testing to ensure sterilization processes are effective and compliant
  • Safely restrain patients as required during examinations and procedures.
  • Assist Surgical RVTs and Veterinarians with procedures, treatments, and patient care as directed.
  • Provide basic nursing care for hospitalized patients, including feeding, bathing, and overnight care.
  • Identify and report equipment issues or malfunctions promptly to the appropriate supervisor.
  • Support client communication related to surgical cases, including pre- and post-operative coordination.
  • Assist with reviewing incoming referrals and organizing surgical case flow appropriately.
  • Coordinate scheduling of consults and surgical procedures in collaboration with the surgical and RVT teams.
  • Assist with discharge communication and client instructions, ensuring clear, compassionate, and consistent messaging.
  • Assist with practice management software, including accurate client and patient record maintenance.
  • Maintain hospital cleanliness by following established cleaning schedules and supporting high standards of hygiene.
  • Support inventory management of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, including ordering, receiving, storage, and handling.
  • Follow all hospital standard operating procedures (SOPs) to support safe and efficient operations
  • Comply with all federal and provincial animal health, workplace health, and safety regulations.
  • Communicate clearly and proactively with clients, veterinarians, RVTs, and management to support teamwork and continuity of care.

 

 

Other duties may be assigned as required.


Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have: 

Education and Experience

  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience working as a Veterinary Assistant preferred.
  • Completion of a Veterinary Medical Assistant program is considered an asset but not required.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age in accordance with Occupational Health & Safety requirements.



Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Comfortable handling a wide variety of animals and communicating effectively with pet owners.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic clinical environment.
  • Strong customer service skills with a compassionate, client-focused approach.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities and remain calm under pressure.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Proven active listening, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Motivated to continuously improve, contribute to practice growth, and pursue professional development.


We thank all interested candidates for applying, however, only candidates considered for an interview will be contacted.