Veterinary Assistant — Growth, Variety & Hands-On Care

VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc; Waterford (CT); On-site; USD 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement savings with company

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid vacation and sick days

Veterinary discounts

Education benefits and scholarships

Job summary

VCA New London Animal Hospital in Waterford, CT is seeking a compassionate and dedicated experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our general practice team. The role involves assisting exams, prepping patients, and supporting treatment and diagnostics alongside veterinarians and technicians.

compensation is $22.00 - $26.00 per hour depending on experience and skills. Full-time with weekend rotation. Learn more at vcahospitals.com/new-london.

Qualifications

• Monitors hospitalized patients, observing and reporting changes to the veterinary team.
• Brings a hands-on approach to pharmacy support, treatments, procedures, and diagnostics.
• Prepares treatment areas, exam rooms, and surgical suites, maintaining a clean, organized, and sterile environment.
• Supports patient husbandry for hospitalized patients — feeding, walking, cage cleaning, bedding changes, and comfort care.
• Assists with laboratory procedures and basic diagnostic testing.
• Administers medications and helps maintain accurate patient records.
• Assists with client communication, education, and coordination around patient intake and discharge.
• Communicates clearly with veterinarians, technicians, and the broader care team to keep patients moving smoothly through the day.
• Stays calm, adaptable, and efficient across a variety of cases and species.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians during exams and procedures.
• Prepare patients and treatment rooms for care and procedures.
• Monitor hospitalized patients and report vital changes to the team.
• Support pharmacy operations and accurate medication administration.
• Assist with labs and diagnostic tests as directed.
• Educate clients and coordinate patient intake/discharge.

Skills

Patient monitoring

Pharmacy support

Prep areas

Patient care

Lab procedures

Medication administration

Client communication

Team communication

Calm under pressure

Job description

VCA New London Animal Hospital in Waterford, CT is seeking a compassionate and dedicated experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our general practice team. The role involves assisting exams, prepping patients, and supporting treatment and diagnostics alongside veterinarians and technicians.

compensation is $22.00 - $26.00 per hour depending on experience and skills. Full-time with weekend rotation. Learn more at vcahospitals.com/new-london.