From home guards and servants to companions and emotional support, our pets are making a difference in our lives.
Veterinary Assistant
Description
The behind-the-scenes heroes at vet clinics—feeding furballs, cleaning up mysterious messes, and calming anxious fur clients, often while juggling record sheets.
Responsibilities
- Handle animal restraint, feeding, and basic care
- Clean and sterilize exam areas, assist vets with procedures
- Support inventory management and patient records
Pay range (U.S.)
- Employment (2023): ~75,253 assistants & lab animal caretakers
- Median Pay (2024): $37,320/year
- Range (10th–90th): ~$29,160 – $48,150/year
Requirements
- The will to work with animals of all types
Workforce Size in the United States
- Total Employed (2023): ~118,200 jobs
- Projected Growth (2023–2033): 19% (much faster than average)
- Annual Openings: Approximately 25,800 per year
They deal with the good, the bad, and the furry—earning smiles (and yes, occasional slobbery kisses) daily.