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Veterinary Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Intern information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$16

$28

How much do veterinary intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary intern in Virginia is $16.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.86 and $18.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Veterinary Interns?

Veterinary Interns are recent veterinary school graduates who participate in a structured, supervised training program, typically lasting one year, at a veterinary hospital or clinic. This internship allows them to gain advanced practical experience in areas such as medicine, surgery, and emergency care under the guidance of experienced veterinarians. The goal is to further develop clinical skills, deepen medical knowledge, and prepare for potential specialization or residency programs. Veterinary internships are common in both small animal and large animal practices and are often seen as a stepping stone to advanced veterinary careers.

What are some typical challenges faced by Veterinary Interns during their internship year?

Veterinary Interns often encounter the challenge of managing a steep learning curve while adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment. Balancing long hours, emergency cases, and overnight shifts can be demanding, particularly when transitioning from academic settings to practical, hands-on patient care. Interns are expected to quickly develop clinical judgment, communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff. Building confidence while seeking mentorship and feedback is essential for success and professional growth in this role.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Veterinary internships are open to individuals of various ages, including those in their early twenties. Age is generally not a barrier, as internships focus on skills, education, and commitment to the profession. Many interns start at different stages of their careers or education, making 22 a common age for entry-level veterinary internships.

What does a veterinary intern do?

A veterinary intern assists veterinarians with clinical tasks such as examining animals, administering treatments, and performing diagnostic tests. They gain hands-on experience in animal care, often working in clinics or hospitals, and may observe surgeries and learn to use veterinary tools under supervision.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Intern, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, foundational clinical skills, and a strong understanding of animal health and diagnostics. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic imaging tools is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are vital soft skills for interacting with clients and collaborating with veterinary staff. These skills and qualities are essential for providing effective patient care, learning in a fast-paced environment, and laying the groundwork for a successful veterinary career.

How to find veterinary internships?

Veterinary internships can be found through veterinary schools, professional associations, and online job boards. Networking with veterinarians and applying directly to clinics or animal hospitals also increases opportunities; many internships require prior coursework in animal science or related fields. Certifications such as basic animal handling or CPR may be beneficial during the application process.

How much do veterinary interns get paid?

Veterinary interns typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with some programs offering stipends or hourly wages based on the location and institution. Compensation can vary depending on whether the internship is paid or unpaid, and some programs may provide housing or other benefits.

What is the difference between Veterinary Intern vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary InternVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in veterinary school or recent graduateLicensed or certified veterinary technician
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research facilitiesVeterinary clinics, hospitals, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary schools, hospitals, research institutionsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding training roles in veterinary medicineCareer path and certification details

Veterinary interns are typically veterinary students gaining practical experience during or after their studies, while veterinary technicians are licensed professionals providing ongoing support in animal care. Interns focus on learning and observation, whereas technicians perform technical tasks and assist veterinarians regularly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Veterinary Intern jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Veterinary Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Intern job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,805 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

$70K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description

We build veterinary medicine around great people.

Partner Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center (PVESC) is a women-founded and led business committed to reimagining a profession that we love. Our leadership team founded Partner Veterinary to create an environment where veterinary professionals are supported, valued, and empowered to make a meaningful difference in the field and for pet families.


Our hospitals in Frederick, Maryland and Richmond, Virginia opened in 2023, built from the ground up with a vision for a culture unmatched in veterinary medicine.


We have spent years listening to the needs from those on the front lines of Emergency and Specialty Medicine and we are committed to building the best teams with optimal support.


How can a Partner Rotating Internship help you in your career?

  • Comprehensive, specialty and immersive ECC experience
  • Tailor your professional goals with the aid of our extensive mentorship program - we'll help you get where YOU want to go.
  • Opportunities to be involved in clinical research and trials.
  • Exposure to novel veterinary therapies, including high flow nasal oxygen therapy, interventional radiology, mechanical ventilation, and emergency endoscopic procedures
  • Focus on development of becoming a confident clinician through high quality/high volume emergency training
  • Hands on surgical training for proficiency in emergency settings
  • Allowance for specialty specific CE off site
  • Didactic training through grand rounds, journal club, morbidity and mortality discussions, and specialty department case rounds
  • Specialty and Emergency rotations with a supportive and collaborative team who loves to teach.
  • Supported by clinicians in Emergency, Critical Care, Neurology, Surgery, Internal Medicine, Oncology and Cardiology.

You will be supported by:

  • Doctor and team member mentorship
  • Open building design around patient care and collaboration
  • Optimal team utilization- focus is on everyone practicing at the top of their license made possible by utilization of scribes, client care advocates, intentional case management, role definition, and scheduling. Focus on patients, not paperwork.
  • Triage and ICU doctors on shift together to effectively manage in hospital and receiving cases
  • Robust team recruiting pipeline
  • High level resource management to ensure optimal and functional equipment and supplies
  • Integrated EMR and digital treatment sheet system with extensive bank of medical templates and protocols
  • Unique wellness benefits

Our 20,000 square foot reimagined building and team design includes:

  • Open layout building design layout that encourages interdepartmental communication and collaboration
  • In-house lab equipment
  • Digital radiology
  • Digital cytology
  • Emergency ultrasound
  • Multi-parameter anesthetic monitoring equipment
  • Smartboard technology
  • Integrated EMR and digital treatment sheet software
  • GE 1.5 Tesla MRI
  • GE 16 slice Helical CT Scanner
  • C-arm fluoroscopy

About us:


With our team-centered approach, we recognize that every team member's time is valuable and their skillset unique. Therefore, our shared goal is for each team member to have the tools and support necessary to practice an excellent standard of care in their area of expertise and to have a work-life balance that lends itself to sustainability and happiness.


You will be supported by a dedicated leadership team comprised primarily of Veterinarians and Veterinary technicians who understand the challenges of veterinary medicine and are committed to building and supporting happy, productive teams.


About our cities:

  • Frederick, MD https://partnervesc.com/about-frederick/
  • Richmond, VA https://partnervesc.com/about-richmond/

Partner's core values:

  • Reimagine
  • Empower
  • Community Care

Why Work for Partner Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center (PVESC)

Our mission statement is our commitment to our team: 


Partner Veterinary's mission is to provide the best workplace for veterinary talent so that we are the provider of choice for expert and compassionate emergency and specialty veterinary care in our communities.


Apply by contacting Katie Brooks at kbrooks@partnervesc.com or applying through our careers page: 


https://partnervesc.com/careers/

Requirements

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited university
  • Licensure in good standing to practice in the state of Virginia and/or Maryland
  • The ability to make decisions and communicate clearly and effectively with fellow team members and pet families
  • A commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine, upholding the veterinary code of ethics
  • Professional demeanor and appearance, with excellent interpersonal skills and a positive, friendly attitude
  • Willingness to learn, grow, teach and contribute to the continued improvement of our hospital and team.