Locum Emergency Veterinary Assistant

About the Role

At VEG ER for Pets, you'll step directly into the heart of emergency veterinary medicine—working alongside credentialed technicians and veterinarians in a fast-paced, open-concept hospital. This locum position offers the chance to build real clinical skills in a supportive environment where your growth matters. You'll handle everything from patient triage to anesthesia support, learning diagnostic procedures, nursing care, and emergency protocols in real time.

This is more than a job—it's a launchpad. Whether you're exploring a career in emergency medicine or working toward your RVT credential, VEG invests in your development with guided training pathways, CPR and RECOVER Certification training, and genuine mentorship from experienced team members.

Key Responsibilities

• Triage incoming patients and provide compassionate support to anxious pet parents
• Assist with treatments, diagnostics (bloodwork, imaging), catheter placement, and oxygen support
• Work alongside RVTs and veterinarians to set up and monitor anesthesia and sedation cases
• Manage IV fluids, blood transfusions, and medication administration
• Support patient care across all settings—exam rooms, treatment areas, inpatient monitoring
• Participate in clinical rounds to stay engaged with case progression
• Learn CPR and pursue RECOVER Certification (training provided)
• Progress into advanced tasks such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization through structured training

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1+ years of veterinary assistant experience (emergency or specialty background preferred)
• Currently enrolled in an OVMA-accredited veterinary technology program (a plus)
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with practice management software and electronic medical records
• Strong communication skills for collaborating with pet parents and team members
• Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment
• Physical ability to stand for prolonged periods, kneel, work at floor level, lift up to 25 kg independently, and support up to 40 kg with assistance
• Comfort working in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odours
• Availability for rotating nights, weekends, and holidays as hospital demands require
• Adaptability in fast-paced settings with diverse team members and personalities

Benefits

• Competitive compensation: $22–$28 CAD per hour
• Flexible work scheduling to support your life outside work
• Generous referral reward program to bring in awesome team members
• Comfy scrubs and cool VEG swag
• Food and snacks available in the hospital
• CPR and RECOVER Certification training provided
• Structured mentorship and guided learning pathways
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion—your authentic self is valued here
• Accessibility support available during the application and interview process

About the Practice

VEG ER for Pets is part of the Veterinary Emergency Group, a network of 24/7 emergency hospitals across North America. Founded in 2014 with a mission to help people and their pets when they need it most, VEG has built a reputation for open-concept emergency facilities and a culture that genuinely values its team. At VEG, you're not just filling a role—you're joining a community where careers grow, voices are heard, and your contributions make a real impact.

The Etobicoke location operates round the clock, 365 days a year, handling emergencies of all kinds in a collaborative, learning-focused environment. VEG is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are celebrated, and every team member has the support they need to thrive—including accommodation and accessibility support aligned with Ontario's accessibility standards.