Veterinary Assistant-Receptionist

Job description

• **Please apply only if you have at least 1 year of Canadian experience in this field or a similar position. Candidates without the required experience will not be considered***

Join Our Team at Happy Tails Animal Hospital!

Located in the heart of North Vancouver, Happy Tails Animal Hospital is seeking a compassionate and skilled Veterinary Assistant-Receptionist to join our team. If you're passionate about animal welfare, detail-oriented, and thrive in a dynamic environment, we want to hear from you!

As a Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist, you will play a key role in delivering exceptional care to our animal patients while supporting our veterinary team. This dual role involves assisting in medical procedures, maintaining a clean and organized clinic, and ensuring smooth front-desk operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist veterinarians in caring for and treating animal patients
• Safely restrain animals during exams and treatments
• Prepare and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment
• Administer medications and treatments as directed by veterinarians
• Collect and prepare lab samples for testing
• Assist in diagnostic procedures, including x-rays and bloodwork
• Ensure examination rooms are clean and prepared for each patient
• Support the medical team during surgeries and other medical procedures
• Perform reception duties such as answering phones, managing emails, and communicating with clients

Qualifications

• At least1 year of Canadian experience in the veterinary assistant field is required
• Having relevant certifications (such as a Veterinary Assistant Certificate) is considered an asset
• Strong communication skills and a passion for animal care

What We Offer

• Competitive pay based on experience ($19.50 - $22.50 per hour)
• A collaborative and supportive work environment
• Opportunities for growth within the field of veterinary care
• A comprehensive benefits package (dental, vision, extended health care)
• Team Communication & Cooperation:
• You will be in direct communication with management and all veterinary staff. Clear communication is essential, and tasks should not be passed to others unless directly instructed..
• Clinic Maintenance:

Staff are responsible for maintaining a clean and organized environment. This includes routine cleaning of equipment, floors, and ensuring that all examination rooms are properly prepared after each patient. Everyone shares the responsibility for keeping the clinic in top condition.

• Professionalism & Boundaries:

Professional communication is a must. Any workplace concerns should be communicated through formal channels, keeping personal boundaries in place to ensure a respectful and productive workplace. You’ll be expected to manage both veterinary assistance and front-desk responsibilities. This includes answering phones, managing emails, coordinating referrals, and supporting external communications related to animal care. Given the nature of the role, working with animals can sometimes be stressful. You’ll need to wear protective equipment like gloves during procedures and manage your own stress levels to ensure the best care for our patients. Self-care is vital in our Health service environment. Clinic policies and shift schedules may evolve to meet the needs of the practice. Flexibility and a willingness to adapt are key. To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to “sarahthospital@gmail.com” with the subject line 'Veterinary Assistant Application.

• Start Immediately
• Dual Role (Veterinary & Front Desk):
• Workplace Safety & Stress Management:
• Flexibility in Policies & Scheduling
• Must be able to safely lift and carry pets weighing up to 30-40 Ibs

Job Types: Full Time , Part Time

Pay: $19.50-$22.50 per hour

Benefits for Full time employees:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Paid time off
• Store discount
• Vision care

Schedule:

• Monday to Saturday, (Working on Saturday is Mandatory)

Education

• Preferred: Post-secondary education in a related field (e.g., animal health, biology).

Experience

• Veterinary Assistant-Receptionist: 1 year (required)
• Customer service: 1year (required)

Language:

• English Fluently, reading/writing in advanced level (required)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2026-05-15

Expected start date: Immediately

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $19.50-$22.50 per hour

Benefits

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• Store discount
• Vision care

Application question(s):

• Do you have prior experience working in a veterinary clinic, animal hospital, or animal care setting? (Yes/No)
• Do you have customer service or receptionist experience (phone, scheduling, client communication)? (Yes/No — if yes, please explain.)
• This position may require evening, weekend, or holiday shifts. Are you available and flexible to work these hours if scheduled? (Yes/No)
• How do you handle a client who is anxious or refuses recommended care for their pet?
• Tell me about a time you noticed a patient’s condition change quickly. How did you respond?
• Which veterinary software, lab equipment, or diagnostic tests have you used regularly?
• This role can be fast-paced — how do you stay organized and calm under pressure? Are you comfortable with flexible shifts, including evenings or weekends?
• ow would you handle a situation Can you describe your experience with animal restraint, venipuncture, and placing IV catheters?where a pet owner is upset or emotional? (Short written response)
• What interests yHave you monitored anesthesia before? What protocols do you follow to ensure patient safety?ou most about working at a veterinary hospital, and why do you feel you’re a good fit for this role? (Short written response)
• When can you start? (This role needs to be filled immediately)

Work Location: In person