Veterinary Assistant

About the Role

The Calgary Animal Referral and Emergency Centre (CARE Centre) is seeking a full-time Veterinary Assistant to support its 24-hour emergency and referral specialty hospital. This is a fast-paced position where you'll be the hands-on caregiver for hospitalized patients, working alongside Animal Health Technicians (AHTs) and veterinarians to deliver exceptional emergency care.

You'll work 40 hours per week on rotating 12-hour shifts across all days of the week, including nights, weekends, and weekdays. Success in this role requires energy, strong organizational skills, the ability to multitask, and genuine interpersonal skills—the CARE Centre operates as a tight-knit, team-focused environment committed to outstanding patient and client care.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply proper restraint techniques when assisting AHTs and veterinarians with patient assessment and treatment
• Support AHTs and veterinarians during sample collection, radiography, and ultrasound procedures
• Provide physical and emotional support to patients throughout their hospital stay
• Maintain hospital treatment areas, ensuring cleanliness and proper sanitation standards
• Feed, walk, and provide general care to hospitalized patients to maximize comfort
• Contribute to ICU and overall hospital maintenance as needed

Requirements

• Availability to work a 40-hour week on rotating 12-hour shifts, 7 days per week (including nights, weekends, and weekdays)
• Energetic, self-motivated, and outgoing temperament
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure emergency environment
• Commitment to animal welfare and patient-centred care

Benefits

• Comprehensive wellness and appreciation culture
• Paid continuing education and professional development opportunities
• Membership and professional dues covered
• Wellness days, sick days, and vacation time
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Annual uniform allowance
• Generous employee pet care discounts
• Access to wellness tools for meditation, sleep, exercise, and focus
• Virtual health care (telemedicine) access
• Community volunteering opportunities through VCA initiatives
• Referral bonus rewards
• Additional perks including shopping discounts and wellness apps

About the Practice

The Calgary Animal Referral and Emergency Centre (CARE Centre) is a 24-hour emergency and referral specialty hospital dedicated to providing the highest level of emergency and specialized care. The practice serves pet owners and the broader veterinary community across Alberta.

CARE Centre operates as part of VCA Canada, which is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse workplace and operates as an equal opportunity employer.