Shelter Veterinary Assistant: Hands-On Animal Care

Animal-Rescue-League-of-Iow; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Veterinary benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Animal Rescue League of Iowa is seeking a Shelter Veterinary Assistant to support medical care for shelter animals in Des Moines, IA. You will assist veterinarians, handle animals, monitor recovery, and maintain clean treatment spaces.

The role offers full-time or part-time schedules, with shifts across mornings or evenings to meet shelter needs. On-the-job training is provided, with potential educational support for CVT pursuing candidates.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required, or ability to obtain one.
• At least one year of hands-on professional animal-handling experience.
• Experience in an animal shelter veterinary team or veterinary clinic role preferred.
• Willingness to become Fear Free Handling certified.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately and adapt to changing priorities.
• Reliable, compassionate, and able to work in a fast-paced shelter medical environment.
• Basic computer skills required.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary team members with exams, treatments, procedures, and shelter animal medical care.
• Safely handle, restrain, and care for animals of varying sizes, breeds, temperaments, and medical needs.
• Support daily medical rounds, treatment plans, medication administration, and patient monitoring, as directed.
• Prepare treatment areas, supplies, equipment, and animal housing areas for medical care.
• Monitor animals for changes in health, behavior, comfort, or recovery and communicate concerns promptly.
• Clean and disinfect equipment, kennels, treatment areas, and medical workspaces.
• Assist with basic laboratory preparation, supply stocking, and medical equipment maintenance.
• Document information accurately and follow shelter medical, safety, sanitation, and animal handling procedures.

Skills

Animal handling

Communication

Teamwork

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Animal Rescue League of Iowa is seeking a Shelter Veterinary Assistant to support medical care for shelter animals in Des Moines, IA. You will assist veterinarians, handle animals, monitor recovery, and maintain clean treatment spaces.

The role offers full-time or part-time schedules, with shifts across mornings or evenings to meet shelter needs. On-the-job training is provided, with potential educational support for CVT pursuing candidates.