Large Animal Veterinary Assistant

Wildcat Vet Clinic; Drexel (MO); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Wildcat Vet Clinic in Drexel, MO is seeking a Large Animal Veterinary Assistant to join our clinical team. The role emphasizes handling and treating horses, cattle, and small ruminants, with field work possible.

You will assist veterinarians with exams, therapies, and preventative care in both clinic and barn settings. Ideal candidates have hands-on experience with large animals, strong physical stamina, and excellent communication skills to educate owners and barn managers.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6months of hands-on experience working with large animals in a clinical or farm setting.
• Physical stamina to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and perform labor in varying weather conditions.
• Strong safety awareness, adaptability, proficiency in animal restraint, and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Safely handle and restrain large animals (horses, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs) for examinations and procedures.
• Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as directed; collect and process diagnostic samples.
• Position patients for radiographs and assist with field ultrasound; support diagnostic imaging.
• Communicate treatment plans and discharge instructions clearly to owners and barn managers.
• Maintain sanitation, stocking, and readiness of mobile units and diagnostic equipment.

Skills

Animal restraint

Safety awareness

Adaptability

Communication

Job description

Position:Large Animal Veterinary Assistant

Location: Drexel, MO

Job Id:145

# of Openings:1

Job Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Veterinary Assistant or Technician, predominantly focused on large animals, to assist our veterinary team in providing high-quality medical, surgical, and preventative care for large animals (equine, bovine, small ruminants, and swine). This role requires strong patient handling skills, technical proficiency, and the ability to work effectively in both clinic and field settings.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Handling & Restraint: Safely handle and restrain large animals (horses, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs) for examinations, diagnostic procedures, treatments, and vaccinations.
• Clinical & Laboratory Support: Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as directed by veterinarians. Collect and process diagnostic samples (blood, fecal, urine, tissue).
• Diagnostic Imaging: Position patients and take diagnostic-quality radiographs and assist with field ultrasound equipment.
• Client Communication & Education: Communicate treatment plans, discharge instructions, and preventative healthcare protocols clearly to animal owners and barn managers.
• Equipment & Vehicle Maintenance: Maintain, sanitize, and stock mobile veterinary units, surgical gear, and diagnostic tools to ensure readiness for field calls.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 6months of hands-on experience working with large animals in a clinical or farm setting.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work on your feet for extended periods, and perform physical labor in varying weather conditions.
• Key Skills: Strong safety awareness, adaptability, proficiency in animal restraint, and excellent communication skills. Willingness to be trained on small animal medicine and surgery.