Veterinary Dental Assistant

Vista Pet Hospital; Portland (OR); Hybrid; USD 30,307 - 35,817; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) matching

Tuition support

Quarterly team bonuses

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Vista Pet Hospital in Portland, Oregon is seeking an Experienced Veterinary Dental Assistant for a full-time role. The successful candidate will perform dental procedures, assist with patient care, and communicate closely with clients. Ideal applicants will have veterinary experience, dental proficiency, and excellent interpersonal skills. Competitive salaries ranging from $22 to $26 per hour, along with comprehensive health benefits and generous PTO, make this an exceptional opportunity for those passionate about animal care.

Qualifications

• Experience with dental prophylaxis and dental radiographs preferred.
• Ability to educate clients on dental care and follow-up.
• Comfortable with client communication and medical follow-up.

Responsibilities

• Perform dental prophylaxis procedures, including scaling and polishing.
• Monitor patients during dental procedures and ensure safe recovery.
• Maintain cleanliness and order in treatment areas and equipment.

Skills

Dental prophylaxis

Patient communication

Multitasking

Teamwork

Interpersonal skills

Education

Previous experience in a veterinary hospital

Knowledge of drug calculations

Tools

eVet/Pulse

Job description

Overview

Vista Pet Hospital is Hiring an Experienced Veterinary Assistant!

• Role: Experienced Veterinary Dental Assistant
• Status: Full-time
• Salary: $22 - $26 / hour
• Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

Benefits Highlights

• Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive pay, 401(k) matching, tuition support, and referral bonuses
• Wellness & Peace of Mind: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with supplemental options; up to three weeks of paid parental leave; generous PTO; and employee discounts
• Professional Growth & Recognition: Quarterly team bonuses, continuing education allowance, state license & VTNE fee reimbursement, and uniform allowance
• Lifestyle Perks You’ll Appreciate: Six paid holidays and an Employee Assistance Program

Vista Pet Hospital is a fast-paced, three-doctor practice committed to providing exceptional care for pets and their families. We are seeking a friendly, motivated, and driven Experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. This role is ideal for a highly skilled assistant with a strong interest in dentistry, client communication, and collaborative medical support. If you love animals, excel at patient care, and thrive in a dynamic environment, we’d love to hear from you!

Responsibilities

• Perform and support dental prophylaxis procedures, including scaling, polishing, and charting.
• Obtain high-quality full-mouth dental radiographs and assist with interpretation and documentation.
• Properly prepare and maintain the dental suite, equipment, and instruments.
• Monitor patients under anesthesia and support safe induction and recovery during dental procedures.
• Educate clients on dental disease, home dental care, and follow-up treatment recommendations.

Clinical & Patient Care

• Venipuncture – jugular, cephalic, and saphenous.
• Restraint of patients for diagnostic procedures (i.e., ultrasonography, radiology), sample collection, medical and surgical procedures.
• Safely restrain fractious and anxious patients using fear-free techniques when possible.
• Responsible for patient comfort in a safe and hygienic environment during treatment and hospitalization, including cleaning kennels, laundry, and other areas of the facility, with exposure to urine, feces, and other bodily fluids.
• Ensure treatment rooms, kennels, surgical and dental suites, exam rooms, and all hospital areas are clean, stocked, and orderly.
• Properly fill prescriptions, maintain materials and equipment, and keep treatment areas stocked and prepared.
• Knowledge of common vaccines and vaccination protocols, with the ability to confidently explain them to clients.
• Legibly maintain accurate medical records in accordance with hospital policy.

Client Communication & Chief of Staff Support (Strong Focus)

• Strongly support the Chief of Staff with ongoing client communication and medical follow-up.
• Respond to clients via phone calls, text, and email regarding diagnostics, treatment plans, estimates, and post-visit follow-up.
• Communicate follow-up care instructions, treatment plans, and next steps clearly and compassionately.
• Admit, room, and discharge patients per veterinarian orders, ensuring patients are medically appropriate for discharge.
• Prepare and review estimates, discuss financial commitments, and support hospital financial policies.
• Maintain accurate and organized client and patient records using eVet/Pulse.
• Collaborate closely with doctors and staff to ensure seamless client and patient experiences.
• Provide compassionate support to clients during difficult or emotional situations.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a veterinary hospital required.
• Demonstrated experience with dental prophylaxis and dental radiographs strongly preferred.
• Basic knowledge of drug calculations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to anticipate patient and DVM needs.
• Comfortable with frequent client communication and medical follow-up.
• Proficient with computers and office equipment; experience with eVet/Pulse is a plus.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for animals and empathy for their owners.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.

Employee Wellbeing & Benefits

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay and benefits (including health insurance, PTO, and employee discounts).
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• A positive, team-oriented work environment.
• The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their families.

We look forward to hearing from you — apply today!

We are committed to building an inclusive, equitable workplace where team members feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their highest potential.

Prioritize your work-life balance and enjoy a fulfilling time away from work with our generous offerings.

Training & Development

Unleash your potential and foster professional growth through our comprehensive education and training programs.

• VetCor University - training for skill development and career growth
• CE Allowance and opportunities
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Lend a Hand Program – increased pay to help a sister hospital
• VetLife Days – rotate to a sister hospital

Enjoy exclusive benefits for you and your furry family members.

• Discounted Products

Health & Welfare

Take care of your well-being with our comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Optional Life Insurance, Disability, and Accidental Insurance
• EAP with counseling and mental health benefits
• DVM Professional Liability Insurance fully covered
• Licensure Fees, Professional & Association Dues

Financial Wellbeing

Secure your financial future with our range of offerings designed to promote your financial well-being.

• 401K with company contribution
• Health Savings Account
• Flexible Spending Account
• EAP with Financial & Legal Advice/Services
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Bonus

Time Off / Work-Life Balance

Prioritize your work-life balance and enjoy a fulfilling time away from work with our generous offerings.

• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays