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Veterinary Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Managing Veterinarian

Des Moines, IA · On-site

You'll mentor associate veterinarians, help guide hospital operations, and drive exceptional patient care alongside a collaborative leadership team. What We Offer: * Competitive salary plus ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Des Moines, IA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... The Veterinary Assistant represents the mission and values to all clients. Our Veterinary ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... The Veterinary Assistant represents the mission and values to all clients. Our Veterinary ...

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Veterinary Helper information

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$9

$16

$20

How much do veterinary helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary helper in Iowa is $16.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are veterinary helpers?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Veterinary Helper, and why are they important?

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 some 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Veterinary Helper jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Veterinary Helper job openings:
Veterinary Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Helper job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,012 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Managing Veterinarian

Managing Veterinarian

National Veterinary Associates

Des Moines, IA

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Starch Pet Hospital is seeking a Managing Veterinarian (DVM) to lead our established small animal hospital in the Des Moines metro area. This leadership opportunity is ideal for a veterinarian passionate about high-quality medicine, surgery, mentorship, and practice growth.

Our full-service hospital features digital radiology, ultrasound, an in-house IDEXX laboratory, dental radiology, laser therapy, dedicated surgery suites, and an experienced support team. You'll mentor associate veterinarians, help guide hospital operations, and drive exceptional patient care alongside a collaborative leadership team.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary plus production
  • Leadership and mentorship opportunities
  • Access to continuous development through NVA's PetOne Veterinary Hospital
  • Comprehensive benefits and CE support
  • Advanced equipment and a loyal client base

Enjoy affordable living, excellent schools, and all the dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation that make Des Moines one of the Midwest's best places to live and work.

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About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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