Performance Horse Veterinary Assistant - Hagyard Equine Medical Institute

Job Description

Job Description

PetVet Care Centers' Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is currently seeking a Performance Horse Veterinary Assistant to join their team!

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter.

Because life is better with pets.

We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.

With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide , we offer:

• Local autonomy with national support
• Career mobility and development opportunities
• A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.

Position Overview

Join our team as a Performance Horse Veterinary Assistant who provides direct support to one veterinarian, primarily in an ambulatory setting. They deliver quality care for all patients and provide exceptional service.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Kentucky, is an internationally recognized leader in equine medicine, combining cutting-edge technology with a collaborative team dedicated to advancing equine health and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarian during examinations, treatments, and medical procedures while ensuring patient safety and adherence to established protocols.
• Prepare and organize equipment, instruments, and supplies required for routine and advanced veterinary procedures.
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels of medical supplies, medications, and equipment within veterinarians' work vehicles; communicate restocking needs proactively.
• Ensure veterinary vehicles are clean, organized, and fully prepared for daily field service operations, including cleaning equipment and maintaining sanitary conditions.
• Accurately maintain patient medical records, charts, and treatment documentation in a timely and organized manner.
• Record patient observations and updates while properly interpreting and carrying out veterinary instructions and treatment plans.
• Process client billing and related administrative documentation accurately and efficiently.
• Assist with the maintenance, documentation, and compliance of controlled substance logs in accordance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Support veterinarians with patient restraint, handling, and procedural preparation as directed.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and professional work environment, including routine cleaning of veterinary equipment, treatment areas, and vehicle interiors.
• Demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness in managing changing schedules, emergency calls, and varying caseload demands in a field service environment.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with veterinarians, team members, and clients to support quality patient care and client service.
• Follow all safety protocols, biosecurity standards, and organizational policies while performing daily responsibilities.
• Complete special projects and perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors, veterinarians, or members of management.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to be considered for this position
• Equine experience  preferably in performance or racetrack medicine
• Previous veterinary assistant, animal handling, or equine experience required.
• Ability to safely handle and restrain animals in a field setting.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain accurate medical records and documentation.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and rotating assignments.
• Basic computer and administrative skills, including billing and documentation.
• Knowledge of veterinary terminology and medical procedures preferred.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record may be required.

Schedule

• Dayshift, typically 5-6 days a week and primarily Monday - Friday/Saturday 
• Schedule is dependent on doctor needs. Overtime required during busy seasons or racetrack events

What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members — professionally and personally. Benefits include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution
• Team Member Pet Discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support — including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle — a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Pay Range

$18—$22 USD

At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a  Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 400 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals , including 1700+ veterinarians , we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.

Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy , empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.

You care for pets. We care for you.

PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

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