Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant $1,000 sign on bonus  – Lakewood Animal Hospital
Full-Time | $17–$20/hour | No Weekends

Lakewood Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time Veterinary Assistant to join our team in Locust Grove, Virginia. This position works directly with our veterinarians and veterinary support team to provide high-quality patient care in a busy small animal practice.

We are looking for a dependable, motivated individual who communicates well, works effectively as part of a team, and is comfortable in a hands-on clinical environment. Previous veterinary or animal care experience is preferred, but we are also willing to consider candidates with strong potential who are eager to learn.

Schedule: Three to four 10-hour shifts per week, generally 7:45 AM–6:00 PM. No weekend shifts.

Compensation: $17–$20 per hour, based on veterinary experience and demonstrated skill level. $1,000 sign on bonus eligible after 60 days of successful employment. Must have three-plus years of experience in the last five years.

Responsibilities

Veterinary Assistants at Lakewood are actively involved in patient care and daily hospital operations. Responsibilities include:

• Assisting veterinarians and veterinary technicians with appointments, treatments, procedures, and surgery
• Safely handling and restraining dogs and cats for examinations and procedures
• Preparing patients, treatment areas, and surgical spaces
• Collecting and preparing blood, urine, fecal, and other diagnostic samples
• Assisting with in-house laboratory testing and diagnostic procedures
• Administering medications and vaccines under veterinarian supervision and as permitted by Virginia regulations
• Monitoring and caring for hospitalized and surgical patients
• Maintaining accurate patient information and medical records
• Cleaning, disinfecting, and preparing examination, treatment, and surgical areas
• Stocking supplies and maintaining an organized clinical environment
• Communicating professionally with clients and other members of the veterinary team

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who:

• Are reliable, professional, and able to work effectively in a team environment
• Are comfortable handling dogs and cats of varying sizes and temperaments
• Can safely perform the physical duties associated with veterinary patient care
• Have strong attention to detail and the ability to follow established medical protocols
• Can manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced clinical setting
• Communicate clearly and professionally with coworkers and clients

Previous veterinary assistant, animal hospital, kennel, or other relevant animal care experience is preferred.

Benefits

Eligible full-time team members receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Retirement benefits
• Employee discounts on veterinary care and products
• Opportunities for professional development and continued learning

About Lakewood Animal Hospital

Lakewood Animal Hospital is a small animal veterinary practice serving Locust Grove and the surrounding communities. Our services include preventive and wellness care, dentistry, surgery, diagnostics, treatment of illness and injury, and urgent care.

Our team emphasizes high-quality medicine, clear communication, efficiency, and collaboration. We are looking for a Veterinary Assistant who wants to contribute to that standard and become a dependable part of our clinical team