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Veterinary Assistant
HealthcareYou're the entry-level worker in a vet clinic — no degree or license required, just a love of animals and a strong stomach. You'll restrain anxious pets, clean kennels, sterilize equipment, and learn the basics of animal care on the job. It's the starting line for a career in veterinary medicine, and your scrubs will smell like wet dog by 10 AM.
Salary Range
Low
$24k
Median
$30k
High
$38k
10-Year Growth
19%
US Workers
110K
Education
High school diploma — on-the-job training provided
Environment
indoor
Tools & Technical Skills
- ▸Animal restraint techniques
- ▸Kennel & cage sanitation
- ▸Basic vital signs (weight, temperature)
- ▸Surgical pack preparation
- ▸Inventory stocking
- ▸Front desk & phone skills
People & Mindset Skills
- ▸Animal empathy
- ▸Physical stamina
- ▸Reliability
- ▸Teamwork
- ▸Adaptability
- ▸Patience
Learn the skills
Courses and certifications to get you job-ready
Kennel & cage sanitation
Basic vital signs (weight, temperature)
What you'll actually do
- 01Restrain animals during exams — cats will try to murder you, dogs will try to love you to death
- 02Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, and exam rooms
- 03Walk hospitalized dogs and monitor them for changes
- 04Prepare surgical packs and sterilize instruments
- 05Take pet weights and basic vitals under tech supervision
- 06Answer phones and help clients at the front desk when needed
- 07Go home covered in fur and at least one mystery stain
Related Shifts
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