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Veterinary Helper information

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How much do veterinary helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 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 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 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 3% Locum Tenens, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,012 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Managing Veterinarian

National Veterinary Associates

Des Moines, IA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


University West Pet Clinic is seeking an experienced Managing Veterinarian (DVM/Medical Director) to lead our well-established small animal veterinary hospital in the Des Moines, Iowa metro area. This is an outstanding opportunity for a veterinarian who enjoys combining exceptional patient care with leadership, mentorship, and practice growth-all while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

As our Managing Veterinarian, you'll partner with an experienced hospital leadership team to shape the future of the practice, mentor fellow veterinarians, and foster a collaborative, positive culture where both people and pets thrive. Whether you're an established leader or an associate veterinarian ready to take the next step, we'll provide the support and resources to help you succeed.

Why You'll Love Practicing Here

You'll have everything you need to provide high-quality medicine, including:

  • Full-service small animal practice
  • Digital radiology and dental radiography
  • Ultrasound
  • In-house IDEXX laboratory
  • Therapeutic laser
  • Dedicated surgical suites
  • Skilled, collaborative technicians and support staff
  • Loyal clients who value lasting relationships and exceptional care
Leadership 

As Managing Veterinarian, you'll have the opportunity to:

  • Mentor and support associate veterinarians
  • Help shape the medical direction of the hospital
  • Collaborate on hospital strategy and continued growth
  • Maintain a positive, team-focused culture
  • Deliver exceptional medicine while empowering your team to do the same
What We Offer
  • Competitive base salary plus production compensation
  • Leadership bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Generous paid time off and CE allowance
  • Professional dues, licensing, and DEA reimbursement
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Leadership development and mentorship through NVA
  • Access to the PetOne Veterinary Training Center, offering advanced hands-on education in surgery, dentistry, ultrasound, leadership, and more
Live Where You Love

Located in the vibrant Des Moines metro, you'll enjoy one of the Midwest's fastest-growing cities with an affordable cost of living, top-rated schools, outstanding restaurants, local breweries, miles of biking and hiking trails, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Whether you're raising a family or looking for your next adventure, Des Moines offers an exceptional quality of life without the traffic and high cost of larger metropolitan areas.

If you're looking for a leadership role where your voice matters, your team supports one another, and you can make a lasting impact on both patients and people, we'd love to meet you.

As Part of National Veterinary Associates (NVA), You'll Also Enjoy:

  • Access to NVA's PetOne Veterinary Training Center for hands-on surgical and clinical training
  • Industry-leading Mentorship Program with dedicated one-on-one support
  • Support and resources to pursue ABVP certification while practicing, helping veterinarians advance their clinical expertise and professional goals
  • No non-compete agreement, providing flexibility and freedom throughout your career
  • 100% company-paid Short-Term Disability insurance, covering qualifying short-term illnesses, injuries, pregnancy, maternity, and parental leave
  • Professional development and leadership growth opportunities
  • Future partnership and ownership opportunities for doctors interested in practice leadership
NVA logo

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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