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LH
la Habra Animal Hospital
Veterinary Assistant
Career Insights for Veterinary Assistant
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Based on California data
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What they do
A Veterinary Assistant assists with animals under veterinary care or in laboratories. Feeds animals, cleans cages, and administers medical treatment under the supervision of a veterinarian or veterinary technician. Works in a veterinary clinic, animal hospital, or laboratory.
$42,405 / year median in California
+22% projected growth
Job Description
Job Overview Join our dynamic veterinary team as a Veterinary Assistant, where your passion for animal care and enthusiasm for supporting veterinary professionals will make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their owners. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to develop your skills in a fast-paced, compassionate environment. As a Veterinary Assistant, you will play a vital role in providing exceptional animal care, assisting with medical procedures, and ensuring the smooth operation of the clinic. Your energetic approach and attention to detail will contribute to a positive experience for every pet and client that walks through our doors. Responsibilities Assist veterinary technicians and veterinarians with animal examinations, treatments, and surgeries, ensuring proper animal restraint and handling at all times. Perform animal husbandry duties including feeding, cleaning enclosures, grooming, and maintaining a clean and safe clinic environment through thorough cleaning and sanitation practices. Support laboratory procedures such as sample collection, specimen processing, and basic diagnostic testing to aid in accurate diagnosis. Administer medications, perform IV insertions, catheterizations, and other medical procedures under supervision while adhering to aseptic techniques and veterinary terminology standards. Handle front desk responsibilities including client communication, appointment scheduling, record keeping, and managing patient files with meticulous attention to detail. Maintain proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during all procedures to ensure safety for animals and staff alike. Support emergency critical care situations by assisting with triage, monitoring vital signs, and providing compassionate pet care during stressful moments. Qualifications Previous kennel experience or veterinary clinic experience demonstrating familiarity with animal handling and husbandry practices. Experience working with dogs, cats, or equine animals is highly desirable; knowledge of animal behavior enhances your ability to handle diverse patients effectively. Strong understanding of veterinary terminology, anatomy, physiology, and aseptic techniques necessary for supporting medical procedures. Ability to perform laboratory tasks such as sample collection and processing accurately while maintaining record integrity. Excellent communication skills for engaging with clients professionally while explaining pet care instructions clearly. Demonstrated ability to work efficiently in a team-oriented environment with attention to detail in record keeping and medication administration. Willingness to learn new skills related to veterinary critical care, surgery support, and advanced animal handling techniques. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that supports your growth as a veterinary professional while ensuring every pet receives the highest standard of care.