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Veterinary Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsVeterinary Helper JobsVeterinary Helper Jobs in Iowa

Veterinary Helper information

See Iowa salary details

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$16

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How much do veterinary helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,012 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Veterinary Receptionist

Veterinary Practice Partners

Hiawatha, IA • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Veterinary Practice Partners rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 176 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

Receptionist - Veterinary Front Desk
Salary: From $15/hr.
Schedule: 36-40 hours per week, including every other Saturday
Petersen Pet Hospital is hiring a full-time customer service professional to be the knowledgeable, welcoming face at our front desk. This role goes beyond typical administrative assistant duties-it's about delivering knowledgeable service while confidently communicating in the language of veterinary care. Whether discussing vaccines, explaining procedures, or coordinating appointments, your ability to speak the lingo and anticipate client needs will directly contribute to smoother appointments, stronger client relationships, and better patient outcomes.
What to Expect
As you join our team, expect to be supported in your work and home life with:
  • All the benefits you deserve-medical, dental, vision, and retirement for full-time team members-plus an employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too!
  • Paid time off. Catch your breath with paid holidays and PTO. Take the time you need to recharge.
  • 401(k) with a generous company We invest in your future while you care for our pets today.
  • Hands-on training and mentorship to support long-term growth across a variety of roles within the hospital, whether you're aiming to grow in client care, or simply build a meaningful long-term role.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Be the first point of contact: Greet clients and their pets warmly, complete the sign-in process, verify and confirm appointment details, and ensure clients feel informed and reassured.
  • Support clinical flow: Assist in relaying key information between clients and clinical staff.
  • Manage client communications: Handle incoming calls for appointments, care questions, prescription refills, and more. Make outbound calls for appointment reminders and follow-up care.
  • Operate with accuracy: Process payments, manage invoicing, and schedule future appointments with attention to detail.
  • Speak the language: Understand and communicate clearly about common vaccines, lab tests, procedures, pet behavior, and veterinary terminology.
  • Create a welcoming space: Help maintain a clean, organized, and client-ready environment-including occasionally assisting with pet-related clean-up to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Qualifications:
  • 2+ years of front desk or client-facing customer service experience, providing a warm and welcoming approach to every interaction
  • Ability to maintain a calm, professional, and positive demeanor

About Petersen Pet HospitalPetersen Pet Hospital in Hiawatha, Iowa is a beautiful, progressive, 8 doctor small animal practice. We are AAHA Accredited, Fear Free, pocket pet friendly upscale practice with an old-fashioned ethic of kindness, quality and caring. Our doctors and team are dedicated to making a visit to our practice a low stress event for our patients and their owners and our client testimonials attest to our success. Led by Dr. Petersen, Dr. Saunders and Dr. McGinty, our veterinarians are well educated and experienced. Most of all, they simply love animals. They are backed by a skilled support team that is friendly and enthusiastic.
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