Position
Salary

How much does a Veterinary Assistant make?

The average salary for a Veterinary Assistant is $38,034 per year in the US.

A Veterinary Assistant earns a yearly average salary of $38,034. This role involves many tasks that help ensure the smooth operation of a veterinary clinic. Responsibilities may include preparing exam rooms, handling paperwork, and assisting with animal care.

The salary for a Veterinary Assistant varies based on experience and location. Many people enter this field with a passion for animal care and an eagerness to learn. As experience grows, so can the salary. For example, those in the higher percentiles can earn upwards of $54,000 per year.

View Veterinary Assistant jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Veterinary Assistant?

Top-paying cities for veterinary assistants offer competitive salaries for those in the field. San Francisco, CA, leads with an average salary of $55,878. Nearby, San Jose, CA, offers $49,114. These cities provide attractive opportunities for career growth and financial stability. Other cities with high salaries include Seattle, WA, at $47,902, and Los Angeles, CA, with $46,860. Boston, MA, and Fort Collins, CO, also stand out with salaries of $46,253 and $45,929, respectively. These locations combine strong salaries with vibrant communities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Veterinary Assistant jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $55,878 and Bend, OR with the lowest at $43,511.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $55,878
    In San Francisco, animal care professionals enjoy a vibrant community and numerous opportunities. Working with top-tier veterinary clinics, such as Blue Pearl and VCA, offers exposure to advanced medical practices. The city's progressive environment and high demand for pet care create a dynamic work setting.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $49,114
    San Jose offers a stable job market for those looking to assist in animal care. This tech hub is home to several well-known veterinary practices, like Banfield Pet Hospital and Ethos Veterinary Health. Employees benefit from a supportive community and a variety of pet care options.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $47,902
    Seattle provides a friendly atmosphere for animal care workers. Veterinary clinics such as Seattle Veterinary Associates and North Seattle Animal Hospital are known for their quality care. The city's love for pets and outdoor activities creates a welcoming work environment.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $46,860
    Los Angeles is ideal for those passionate about animal care. Many prestigious clinics, like Angell Animal Medical Center and Petco, are available. The city’s diverse pet population and warm climate make it an exciting place to work.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $46,253
    Boston offers a unique blend of history and modern opportunities in animal care. Clinics such as Angell Animal Medical Center and BluePearl Pet Hospital are prominent here. The city’s academic influence brings a high level of expertise and innovation.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Boston, MA


  6. Fort Collins, CO
    Average Salary: $45,929
    Fort Collins is a charming city with a strong community focus on animal care. Local clinics like Mountain States Veterinary Hospital provide excellent work environments. The town’s outdoor lifestyle and smaller city feel create a pleasant work atmosphere.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Fort Collins, CO


  7. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $45,176
    Santa Rosa provides a relaxed setting with great opportunities in animal care. Working at clinics like Sonoma Veterinary Hospital, professionals enjoy a friendly community. The area’s wine country charm and beautiful parks enhance the work experience.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  8. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $44,252
    Salinas offers a supportive community and a variety of job opportunities in animal care. Local clinics, such as Salinas Veterinary Clinic, provide a warm and engaging work environment. The city’s agricultural roots and strong community ties create a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Salinas, CA


  9. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $43,637
    San Diego is known for its beautiful weather and vibrant pet care scene. Professionals can work at well-established clinics like San Diego Humane Society and Petco. The city’s coastal environment and outdoor activities provide a refreshing work experience.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Bend, OR
    Average Salary: $43,511
    Bend offers a peaceful setting with a growing need for animal care services. Local clinics, such as Bend Veterinary Clinic, provide a supportive work environment. The city’s outdoor lifestyle and natural beauty make it a great place to live and work.
    Find Veterinary Assistant jobs in Bend, OR

What are the best companies a Veterinary Assistant can work for?

Job seekers looking for a Veterinary Assistant role can find excellent opportunities at top-paying companies. Colorado State University leads with an average salary of $61,492, followed closely by Pima Medical Institute at $54,246. Other notable employers include the Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle, Modern Animal, and Oklahoma State University, all offering competitive salaries. Seeking a position in this field? Excellent options exist with organizations such as ASPCA, MSPCA-Angell, and Oregon State University. These companies provide not only attractive salaries but also a chance to contribute to animal care and welfare.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Veterinary Assistant jobs, highlighting Colorado State University with the highest at $61,492 and MedVet with the lowest at $46,847.
  1. Colorado State University
    Average Salary: $61,492
    Colorado State University offers Veterinary Assistants a chance to work in a research-intensive environment. They operate veterinary clinics in Fort Collins, CO, providing a variety of experiences. The university environment allows for learning and growth in a professional setting.


  2. Pima Medical Institute
    Average Salary: $54,246
    Pima Medical Institute offers a dynamic career for Veterinary Assistants, with campuses in multiple locations. The company provides comprehensive training programs. Assistants gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities located in Arizona.


  3. Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle
    Average Salary: $51,000
    At Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle, Veterinary Assistants work in a specialized environment. This company provides top-notch medical care for pets. The center is known for its advanced veterinary services located in Seattle, WA.


  4. Modern Animal
    Average Salary: $50,934
    Modern Animal is a leader in veterinary care, offering Veterinary Assistants a modern workplace. Assistants work alongside experienced professionals in New York City. The company emphasizes teamwork and high-quality care for pets.


  5. Oklahoma State University
    Average Salary: $50,571
    Oklahoma State University provides a strong educational background for Veterinary Assistants. The university has clinics in Stillwater, OK, offering a variety of experiences. Assistants benefit from a well-rounded training environment.


  6. ASPCA
    Average Salary: $50,125
    The ASPCA offers Veterinary Assistants the opportunity to make a difference in animal care. They operate in New York, NY, focusing on animal welfare. Assistants work in a supportive environment with a mission-driven focus.


  7. MSPCA-Angell
    Average Salary: $49,714
    MSPCA-Angell provides Veterinary Assistants with a rewarding experience in animal care. The company operates in Boston, MA, and focuses on veterinary medicine and animal welfare. Assistants gain valuable experience in a caring environment.


  8. Oregon State University
    Average Salary: $47,183
    Oregon State University offers Veterinary Assistants a chance to work in a research-focused environment. The university has campuses in Corvallis, OR, providing a variety of experiences. Assistants benefit from a well-rounded training environment.


  9. Triangle Veterinary Referral Hospitals
    Average Salary: $46,896
    Triangle Veterinary Referral Hospitals offers Veterinary Assistants a specialized role in animal care. They operate in Raleigh, NC, and focus on providing advanced veterinary services. Assistants work in a supportive environment with a team of professionals.


  10. MedVet
    Average Salary: $46,847
    MedVet offers Veterinary Assistants a chance to work in a high-quality environment. They operate multiple locations across Ohio. Assistants gain valuable experience in a supportive and professional setting.

How to earn more as a Veterinary Assistant?

A Veterinary Assistant can take several steps to increase their earnings. Working in this field offers many opportunities for growth. Focusing on professional development can lead to higher pay. Experience and specialized skills often result in better job offers. Networking with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying positions.

Here are five key factors that can help a Veterinary Assistant earn more:

  1. Obtain certifications: Earning certifications in areas like animal first aid and CPR can make a Veterinary Assistant more valuable.
  2. Seek advanced training: Taking courses in areas such as dental care, radiology, or exotic animal care can lead to higher pay.
  3. Gain experience: Working in different veterinary settings helps build a strong skill set. Each new job teaches new skills, making the assistant more versatile.
  4. Expand your network: Building relationships with other professionals can lead to job referrals and opportunities.
  5. Consider specialized roles: Roles like laboratory work, surgery assistance, or client education often pay more.

Currently 2,301 Veterinary Assistant job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Veterinary Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Veterinary Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Veterinary Assistant today.
Position
Overview
Veterinary Assistant
2,301 Job Openings