Veterinary Assistant Salaries

A Veterinary Assistant plays a vital role in animal care, working closely with veterinarians and pet owners. The average yearly salary for this position is around $37,150. This amount can vary based on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities.

Newcomers in the field might start with a salary of about $26,000. As they gain experience and skills, their earnings can increase significantly. For example, those with a few years in the job earn around $31,325, while more experienced Veterinary Assistants make approximately $39,314. Highly skilled individuals in this profession can earn upwards of $52,290.

This career not only offers competitive pay but also provides a fulfilling opportunity to work with animals and enhance their well-being.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $56,791
   Working as an animal care professional in San Francisco offers a vibrant environment filled with devoted pet owners. Local clinics, like PetCare Veterinary Hospital, provide numerous opportunities for hands-on experience and career growth.
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2. Phoenix, AZ
   Average Salary: $48,013
   In Phoenix, the warm climate and large pet population create a high demand for animal care services. Organizations like Veterinary Hospital at Midwestern University offer promising roles for those interested in animal health.
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3. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $47,722
   San Jose is home to numerous animal hospitals, such as San Jose Animal Hospital, which means job seekers can find many opportunities in this tech-savvy city. The community takes pride in caring for pets, making it a rewarding place to work.
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4. Modesto, CA
   Average Salary: $47,695
   Modesto's friendly neighborhoods encourage pet ownership, leading to a steady need for animal care professionals. Clinics like Animal Care Center provide supportive work environments with great potential for career advancement.
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5. Stamford, CT
   Average Salary: $45,710
   Stamford hosts a compassionate pet community that values animal health. With clinics such as Stamford Veterinary Hospital, aspiring animal caregivers can find a fulfilling career pathway and contribute to local pet welfare.
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6. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $45,601
   In Seattle, a city known for its love of animals, job seekers can find rewarding positions with places like VCA Animal Hospitals. The strong focus on animal welfare makes this a fantastic place to build a career.
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7. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $45,470
   Los Angeles offers a diverse array of animal care opportunities in its vast number of veterinary clinics and hospitals, including the renowned Animal Medical Center. Working here allows professionals to engage with a wide variety of cases every day.
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8. Santa Rosa, CA
   Average Salary: $43,138
   Santa Rosa’s beautiful landscapes and strong sense of community foster a healthy pet culture. Clinics like VCA Adobe Animal Hospital provide chances for growth and development in this heartfelt environment.
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9. Salinas, CA
   Average Salary: $43,046
   Salinas is known for its community spirit and appreciation for pets. Opportunities available at clinics like Salinas Animal Hospital create a welcoming atmosphere for those passionate about animal care.
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10. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $42,835
    Boston offers many possibilities for animal care professionals, with strong institutions like Angell Animal Medical Center. The city's education focus and vibrant pet community support a fulfilling career in animal health.
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1. Veterinary Emergency Group
   Average Salary: $62,127
   Veterinary Emergency Group operates in several locations across the United States. They focus on emergency and critical care for pets. As a Veterinary Assistant here, you will work closely with animals in high-pressure situations, gaining valuable experience.
   




2. Modern Animal
   Average Salary: $54,220
   Modern Animal provides innovative veterinary care with locations in urban areas. As a Veterinary Assistant, you will be part of a supportive team that values collaboration and modern practices in pet healthcare.
   




3. DoveLewis
   Average Salary: $50,835
   DoveLewis is a non-profit emergency and specialty animal hospital located in Oregon. Here, Veterinary Assistants can expect to provide critical care while working in a fast-paced environment dedicated to animal welfare.
   




4. ASPCA
   Average Salary: $50,332
   The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) operates nationwide. As a Veterinary Assistant, you will contribute to their mission of helping animals in need and may work in various environments, from clinics to outreach programs.
   




5. Vetncare
   Average Salary: $49,481
   Vetncare is known for providing quality veterinary services. They have multiple locations where you can work as a Veterinary Assistant, supporting veterinarians in caring for pets and assisting in treatments.
   




6. VETERINARY MEDICAL CENTER
   Average Salary: $49,141
   VETERINARY MEDICAL CENTER focuses on comprehensive pet care across different locations. Working as a Veterinary Assistant here means providing compassionate care and developing close relationships with both animals and their owners.
   




7. Oklahoma State University
   Average Salary: $49,000
   Oklahoma State University offers veterinary services as part of its educational mission. As a Veterinary Assistant, you will work in a learning environment, assisting in the training of future veterinarians while caring for animals.
   




8. North Carolina State University
   Average Salary: $48,905
   North Carolina State University has a veterinary hospital that serves as a teaching facility. Veterinary Assistants here support educational programs and enjoy a research-focused atmosphere while caring for diverse animal patients.
   




9. Partners Veterinary Group
   Average Salary: $46,615
   Partners Veterinary Group operates several clinics and provides excellent services to pet owners. Veterinary Assistants at this group play a hands-on role in delivering quality care and ensuring a positive experience for clients and their pets.
   




10. Old Towne Animal Hospital
    Average Salary: $46,000
    Old Towne Animal Hospital, located in various cities, emphasizes personalized care. As a Veterinary Assistant, you will work in a warm and friendly environment, providing love and attention to pets while assisting the veterinarians.
    

As a Veterinary Assistant, you can increase your earning potential by focusing on several key factors. Here are five ways to help you earn more in this rewarding field:

• Gain Certifications: Earning additional certifications shows your commitment and skills. Consider certifications like the Veterinary Assistant Specialist to enhance your resume.
• Expand Your Skills: Learn new techniques and procedures. Skills in dental care, surgical assistance, or client communication can make you more valuable to employers.
• Seek Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Look for internships or part-time roles that allow you to work with different animal species.
• Choose Specialized Clinics: Working in specialized environments, like emergency clinics or animal hospitals, may offer higher wages due to the demanding nature of the work.
• Network Professionally: Join industry organizations and attend events. Networking can lead to job opportunities that pay better or offer benefits.

By focusing on these factors, you can position yourself for a more rewarding career as a Veterinary Assistant.