Veterinary Assistant
Position Summary
Sackville Animal Hospital is looking for a compassionate, reliable, and hardworking Veterinary Assistant to join our team.
The Veterinary Assistant supports our veterinarians, RVTs, and client care team in providing excellent patient care and a positive experience for our clients. This is a hands-on role in a busy veterinary hospital, with responsibilities ranging from patient handling and treatment support to cleaning, stocking, and general clinic support.
We are looking for someone who takes initiative, works well as part of a team, and understands that every task—from patient care to laundry and cleaning—is important to keeping the hospital running smoothly.
Responsibilities
Patient Care & Handling
- Safely and compassionately handle and restrain patients as directed by veterinarians and RVTs
- Assist with patient intake, weighing, and preparation for appointments
- Assist with hospitalized patient care as directed
- Monitor patients and promptly report concerns or changes to the appropriate team member
- Maintain patient comfort, cleanliness, and wellbeing
- Assist with moving and transporting patients throughout the hospital
- Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, treatment areas, and patient care spaces
Appointment & Treatment Support
- Assist veterinarians and RVTs with appointments, treatments, and procedures
- Prepare exam rooms and treatment areas for appointments
- Prepare supplies and equipment as needed
- Assist with diagnostic procedures as directed
- Assist with surgical preparation and setup
- Assist with patient recovery and post-operative care
- Assist with basic patient care services as directed
- Ensure equipment and supplies are cleaned, stocked, and ready for use
Client Care
- Provide friendly, professional, and compassionate service to clients
- Assist clients with bringing patients into and out of the hospital
- Communicate information within the scope of the Veterinary Assistant role
- Direct medical questions to the appropriate veterinarian or RVT
- Assist with client discharges and home-care instructions as directed
- Maintain client confidentiality and professionalism at all times
Housekeeping & Clinic Organization
- Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the hospital
- Clean and disinfect exam rooms, treatment areas, kennels, surgical areas, and equipment
- Complete laundry, dishes, garbage, and other shared housekeeping responsibilities
- Stock supplies and notify the appropriate team member when inventory is running low
- Assist with inventory counts and organization
- Keep treatment and patient care areas clean, organized, and ready for use
- Help maintain a safe working environment for patients, clients, and staff
Teamwork & Initiative
- Work collaboratively with veterinarians, RVTs, VAs, and client care representatives
- Assist teammates during busy periods and look for ways to help without being asked
- Communicate effectively with the team regarding patient needs and clinic workflow
- Remain engaged and productive throughout the shift
- Use downtime appropriately for cleaning, stocking, organizing, patient care, or assisting teammates
- Take initiative in identifying clinic needs
- Be willing to step into different areas of the hospital when needed
- Contribute positively to team culture and morale
Expectations
- Compassionate and respectful handling of all patients
- Professional and respectful communication with clients and coworkers
- Reliability and punctuality
- Strong attention to detail and follow-through
- Ability to prioritize and multitask in a busy environment
- Willingness to learn and accept feedback
- Ability to remain professional during stressful or busy periods
- Flexibility and willingness to support the needs of the hospital
- Commitment to patient care, client service, teamwork, and cleanliness
- Understanding and respect for the scope of the Veterinary Assistant role
Qualifications
- Veterinary Assistant Certificate
- Previous veterinary hospital experience is considered an asset
- Previous animal care, customer service, or healthcare experience is an asset
- Comfortable handling dogs and cats of varying sizes and temperaments
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently while also functioning well within a team
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
- Willingness to learn and develop new skills
- A genuine love of animals and interest in veterinary medicine
About Sackville Animal Hospital
Sackville Animal Hospital is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care while creating a positive experience for both our patients and their families.
We value teamwork, communication, accountability, compassion, and a willingness to help wherever needed. Every member of our team plays an important role in keeping the hospital running efficiently and ensuring our patients receive the care they deserve.
Pay: From $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care
- Wellness program
Work Location: In person
