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Virtual Animal Assistant Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

Virtual Animal Assistant information

What is a virtual animal assistant?

A Virtual Animal Assistant is a remote professional who helps pet owners manage the care, health, and well-being of their animals using virtual communication tools. Their tasks may include scheduling vet appointments, answering pet care questions, sending medication reminders, providing training tips, and offering advice on nutrition or behavior. They often work with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, or exotic pets, and can support owners from anywhere in the world. This service is especially helpful for busy pet owners or those who need guidance without visiting a physical location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual animal assistant?

To thrive as a Virtual Animal Assistant, you need a strong understanding of animal care, species-specific needs, and customer service, often supported by experience or education in veterinary assistance or animal science. Familiarity with scheduling software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and virtual communication platforms is typically required. Excellent communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help you effectively support pet owners and address their concerns remotely. These skills ensure accurate guidance, client satisfaction, and efficient virtual support for animal wellbeing.

What are some common challenges virtual animal assistants face when working with remote clients and their pets?

Virtual Animal Assistants often encounter challenges such as accurately assessing an animal's behavior or health remotely, as they rely on client descriptions, photos, or videos rather than in-person observation. Clear communication is essential to ensure pet owners provide the necessary information and follow instructions correctly. Additionally, building trust with both the pet and the owner virtually can be more difficult compared to face-to-face interactions, so strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills are crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Virtual Animal Assistant vs Virtual Pet Care Coordinator?

AspectVirtual Animal AssistantVirtual Pet Care Coordinator
CredentialsBasic animal care knowledge, certifications varyAnimal care experience, certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentRemote, online support for pet owners or businessesRemote, coordinating pet care services and schedules
Industry UsagePet care, veterinary support, pet businessesPet sitting, grooming, training services
Search & Comparison IntentAssistance with pet-related tasks remotelyManaging pet care appointments and client communication

The Virtual Animal Assistant primarily provides remote support for pet owners and pet-related businesses, focusing on administrative and basic care tasks. In contrast, a Virtual Pet Care Coordinator manages scheduling, client communication, and coordination of pet care services. Both roles are remote and industry-specific but differ in their core responsibilities and required experience.

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Animal Assistant jobs in Calgary, AB?

For Virtual Animal Assistant jobs in Calgary, AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Veterinary Assistant, ER, Calgary Animal Referral and Emergency Centre

VCA Animal Hospitals

Calgary, AB • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 56 rated veterinary


Job description

Veterinary AssistantDepartment: EmergencyLocation: Calgary, AB

The Calgary Animal Referral and Emergency Centre (CARE Centre) is welcoming a full-timeER Veterinary Assistantto join our dedicated and dynamic pet health care team. The CARE Centre is a 24-hour emergency and referral specialty hospital. We are committed to supporting pet owners and the veterinary community by providing the highest level of emergency and referral care.

The primary role of the ER Animal Health Technician Assistant is to assist the AHTs and Veterinarians with daily tasks and patient care. They are also the hands-on caregivers for our patients in the hospital, including feeding, walking and general cleanliness of patients and their housing to make their stay most comfortable.

The ideal candidate will be energetic, self-motivated, outgoing and possess strong organizational skills. The CARE Centre is a fast-paced environment, so the ability to multitask is essential. Strong interpersonal skills are necessary to thrive in our strongly team-based environment, as well as to provide the exceptional client experience the CARE Centre is known to offer. Some of the responsibilities include:

  • Perform proper restraint techniques when assisting AHT's and veterinarians to assess and treat patients

  • Assist veterinarians and AHT's while they collect samples, take radiographs and perform ultrasounds

  • Provide physical and emotional support for patients

  • Help to maintain the hospital treatment areas and ensure general cleanliness

  • Other duties as needed for the general maintenance of the ICU and hospital

Schedule: Candidates must beavailable to work 40 hours per week on 12-hour rotating shifts,7 days of the week (including weekdays/weekends and overnights) to accommodate the C.A.R.E. Centre's 24-hour hospital.

What WeCanOffer You
  • Competitive compensation that reflects your skills, experience, and the role.

  • RRSP Employer Group Match Program (5%) to help you save for the future.

  • Paid time off for continuing education, vacation, sick days, and personal wellness days.

  • Annual CE Allowance.

  • Benefits: Minimum 24 hours per week for eligibility, with flexible options.

  • Paid annual certification memberships and uniform allowance.

  • Mental health support tools and resources: Virtual health care (telemedicine), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and digital wellness tools supporting mindfulness, sleep, and physical fitness.

  • Various career development pathways.

  • Generous personal pet care discounts and lifestyle perks, including exclusive shopping discounts and access to a wellness app.

Our Story

VCA Canada is a network of veterinary hospitals, with our head office in Calgary, Alberta, committed to positively impacting pets, people, and local communities for nearly 45 years. We have compassion for the neighbourhoods we serve and every pet within them, not just those we see in our hospitals. Every VCA Canada hospital location takes pride in its legacy of excellence, earning the trust of pet owners by delivering the highest quality of medicine to keep pets happy and healthy.
In 2017, VCA Canada became part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, solidifying an even stronger commitment to ensuring the strength and stability of the veterinary profession and our commitment to pet parents nationwide. VCA Canada is also passionate about providing an industry-leading Associate experience to over 4,000 Canadians employed across the country. In 2026, for the third year in a row, we were named one of Alberta's Top Employers, which recognizes organizations whose head offices are located within the province and lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Additionally,we were selected as one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People 2026, which recognizes employers across Canada that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work and programs for young people starting their careers.Most recently, we received 2026 Great Place to Work Certification Canada.

If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.


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