Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant Position

We are excited to begin accepting applications for Veterinary Cancer Group of La Mesa, a brand-new hospital opening on August 31st, 2026. Hired employees will begin on July 13th, 2026. Veterinary Cancer Group of La Mesa is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Veterinary Assistant to join our growing oncology team as part of the Thrive Pet Healthcare network. We are looking for a motivated professional who is passionate about patient care, values teamwork, and is committed to providing exceptional support to both our patients and clients throughout their cancer treatment journey. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience, credentials, and qualifications, with a starting pay rate of $19.00 + per hour depending on experience. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, skill set, certifications, and overall fit for the role. This is a full-time position consisting of four 10-hour shifts per week, Monday through Friday.

Why Join Veterinary Cancer Group? At Veterinary Cancer Group of La Mesa, our team is dedicated to providing advanced oncology care while fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. We believe in investing in our employees through ongoing education, professional development, and opportunities for career growth. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Continuing education opportunities
• Employee assistance programs
• Generous pet care discounts
• Career advancement opportunities within Thrive Pet Healthcare
• Additional voluntary benefits

Position Summary The Veterinary Assistant plays an integral role in supporting veterinarians and veterinary technicians in delivering high-quality patient care. This position is responsible for assisting with patient handling, maintaining hospital cleanliness and organization, supporting diagnostic and treatment procedures, communicating with clients, and ensuring efficient daily hospital operations. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, adaptability, and a commitment to providing compassionate care to patients and their families.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Patient Care Support

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing exceptional patient care.
• Safely handle and restrain patients using low-stress handling techniques.
• Monitor patient comfort and promptly communicate concerns to the medical team.
• Prepare patients for examinations, treatments, and diagnostic procedures.
• Support patient recovery and maintain a clean, comfortable environment.

Clinical Support

• Assist with laboratory testing and maintain laboratory equipment according to established protocols.
• Prepare treatment and examination areas for patient care activities.
• Support the medical team in maintaining efficient patient flow throughout the hospital.
• Accurately dispense medications and prepare prescriptions as directed.
• Ensure charges and treatments are properly documented and captured.

Client Communication

• Obtain and document relevant patient histories from clients.
• Communicate professionally and compassionately with clients regarding their pets' care.
• Relay client concerns and pertinent information to the veterinary team.
• Provide exceptional client service and support throughout each patient visit.

Medical Records and Documentation

• Maintain accurate, thorough, and timely medical records within the hospital practice management system.
• Ensure all patient information, treatments, and communications are appropriately documented.
• Assist with administrative and record-keeping responsibilities as needed.

Hospital Operations

• Perform opening and closing procedures.
• Maintain clean, organized, and sterile treatment areas, examination rooms, laboratory spaces, and common areas.
• Stock and organize medical supplies and hospital inventory.
• Support a safe, efficient, and professional hospital environment.
• Collaborate effectively with team members across all departments.

Qualifications Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Ability to safely lift, move, and restrain animals of varying sizes.
• Commitment to providing compassionate patient care and exceptional client service.

Preferred

• Previous veterinary assistant experience.
• Experience working in a veterinary hospital, specialty practice, or animal care setting.
• Familiarity with veterinary terminology and medical record systems.
• Interest in oncology and specialty veterinary medicine.

What We're Looking For The ideal candidate is:

• Compassionate and patient-focused
• Detail-oriented and organized
• Reliable and dependable
• Adaptable and eager to learn
• Collaborative and supportive of fellow team members
• Passionate about veterinary medicine and continuous professional growth

If you are looking to build your veterinary career within a specialty practice that values teamwork, professional development, and exceptional patient care, we encourage you to apply and join the Veterinary Cancer Group of La Mesa team.