Veterinary Assistant - Primary Care

COVE Animal Health; City of Middletown (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive paid time off

Comprehensive medical insurance

401(k) plan with employer match

Job summary

COVE Animal Health in Middletown, NY is seeking a compassionate Veterinary Assistant to join our dedicated team. This role involves handling and restraining animals, preparing for surgical procedures, and assisting veterinary technicians within a collaborative clinical environment. The ideal candidate should possess experience in animal care, strong interpersonal skills, and a positive attitude towards client interactions.

We offer a supportive culture, competitive benefits including medical insurance and a 401(k) plan, and opportunities for career advancement.

Qualifications

• Prior experience working in a veterinary setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Handle and restrain animals during examinations.
• Prepare and assist with basic surgical setups.
• Maintain cleanliness in clinical areas.

Skills

Animal handling

Communication skills

Multi-tasking

Detail-oriented

Tools

EzyVet

SmartFlow

Job description

Veterinary Assistant

Location: Pieper Veterinary Berlin Street, Middletown, CT.

We are looking for a compassionate and motivated Veterinary Assistant to join our team. This role supports animal handling and restraint, basic surgical preparation, and assisting Veterinary Technicians in a clinical setting. Experience with surgical pack and prep is preferred, and familiarity with EzyVet and SmartFlow is a plus but not required.

What to Expect

• Environment of Collaboration: Our hospital locations work closely together to provide the best possible care.
• Career Advancement: We recognize top talent and promote from within.
• Commitment to Continuing Education: Numerous in-house CE opportunities and available mentoring.

Responsibilities

• Handle and restrain animals during examinations and procedures.
• Prepare and assist with basic surgical setups and patient care.
• Assist Veterinary Technicians with client and interpersonal communication.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in clinical areas.
• Collaborate with veterinarians, technicians, and other staff members.
• Adapt to new tasks and procedures as the workflow evolves.

Schedule

• Full‑time: 4 days a week, 10‑hour shifts (8 am–6 pm).
• Rotating Saturdays (8 am–2 pm) required.

Benefits

• Supportive culture with social events & team building.
• Competitive paid time off & holidays.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Mental health focused services.
• 401(k) plan with strong employer match.

Requirements

• Prior experience working in a veterinary setting.
• Experience in handling animals and performing basic animal care tasks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients and team members.
• Ability to multi‑task and remain organized in a fast‑paced environment.
• Compassion and patience when handling animals.
• Basic knowledge of animal behavior and medical terminology.
• Ability to work well under pressure and in stressful situations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with veterinarians, technicians, and other staff members.
• Willingness to take direction and adapt to new tasks and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Punctuality and reliability, with a commitment to maintaining a high standard of care.
• Positive attitude, professionalism, and a compassionate approach to client care.
• Willingness to continue learning and stay updated on veterinary practices.