Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant (Procedures / Surgery / Internal Medicine / Neurology) Positions Available at BBVSH

Come live and work on the stunning West Coast of Canada, where ocean views, mountain trails, and a vibrant city lifestyle are all within reach. Located in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, our region offers a mild climate year-round and access to some of the country's best outdoor recreation—including hiking, skiing, kayaking, and more. Whether you're drawn to the natural beauty, the cultural diversity, or the thriving veterinary community, the West Coast is an exceptional place to build your career.

About BBVSH

Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital (BBVSH) is built on a foundation of teamwork, respect, and a shared commitment to lifelong learning. We were voted Canadian Veterinary Medical Assocation's (CVMA) Practice of the Year in 2025. Our doctors registered veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, customer service representatives and support staff, form a highly collaborative team that supports one another across services to provide exceptional patient and client care.

We offer a wide range of specialty services, including surgery, oncology, neurology, critical care, internal medicine, radiology, cardiology, behaviour, and physical rehabilitation. BBVSH works closely with referring veterinarians and emergency hospitals across Western Canada, contributing to the broader veterinary community by providing access to specialized care and expertise. Our team is proud to support both primary care providers and pet owners in navigating complex medical situations.

Why Work with Us

Working at BBVSH means being part of a fast-paced and highly specialized environment where no two days are the same. We care for a diverse caseload that includes critical emergencies, complex surgeries, advanced diagnostics, and multi-disciplinary case management. This dynamic atmosphere offers continuous learning opportunities and the chance to contribute meaningfully to patient outcomes and team success.

Training & Development

At BBVSH, we are proud to have a dedicated Training and Development Department that plays an active role in supporting every team member's growth from day one. Our structured on-boarding, mentorship, and continuing education programs are designed to set you up for success. Our training team works closely with all departments to ensure consistent support, skill-building opportunities, and access to the resources needed to thrive in a dynamic hospital environment. Ongoing education, hands-on learning, and one-on-one coaching are just a few ways we invest in our staff—because your professional development is our priority.

About the Role

Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital (BBVSH) is looking to add experienced Veterinary Assistants (VA) with 1 to 3+ years experience to join our dynamic hospital.

We are seeking experienced VAs for the following full-time positions in each department:

• Surgery
• Neurology
• Internal Medicine
• Procedures

Position Overview:

The Veterinary Assistant (VA) plays an essential role in supporting veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) during outpatient visits, imaging, diagnostics, sedation procedures, hospital treatments, and specialty surgeries. VAs ensure smooth daily workflow by assisting with patient handling, equipment preparation, maintaining cleanliness, and providing compassionate care to patients and clients.

The ideal candidate would:

• Graduate from a Veterinary Assistant, Office assistant or Veterinary Technician Assistant program or have gained experience working in a veterinary clinic or hospital
• Have a willingness to learn more regarding veterinary care and services
• Create a positive, low stress environment for our patients and clients
• Have a compassionate and nurturing attitude
• Have the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• Have the ability to adapt to changing situations
• Efficient in carrying out assignments independently
• Take initiative to complete tasks
• Work well under pressure

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Handling

• Safely restrain and handle patients for examinations, imaging, blood collection, wound care, and specialty procedures.
• Assist RVTs and veterinarians during sedated procedures, ensuring proper monitoring, documentation, and patient comfort.
• Provide attentive nursing support, including patient walks, feeding, basic treatments under guidance, and monitoring during recovery.

Diagnostic Support

• Assist with set-up, positioning, and support during advanced imaging (CT, MRI, radiographs, ultrasound).
• Prepare patients and equipment for procedures such as myelograms, CSF taps, endoscopy, biopsies, and specialty diagnostic testing.
• Maintain sterile technique when assisting with neurology and surgery procedural preparation.

Surgery & Neurology Support

• Prepare the operating room, surgical packs, and equipment; ensure sterility standards are maintained.
• Support VA/RVT teams with orthopedic, soft tissue, and neurosurgical cases such as TPLOs, fracture repairs, total hip replacements, hemilaminectomies, craniotomies, ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement, and other advanced procedures.
• Assist with patient transfers to ICU post-operatively and ensure smooth communication between teams.

Internal Medicine & Procedures Support

• Assist with endoscopy, rhinoscopy, cystoscopy, bronchoscopy, feeding tube placements, bone marrow biopsies, abdominal/organ biopsies, and interventional procedures.
• Support IM appointments, diabetic curves, ACTH stim tests, ultrasound-guided procedures, and day-patient treatments.
• Ensure proper set-up, cleaning, restocking, and maintenance of procedure rooms and equipment.

Hospital Operations & Workflow

• Maintain a clean, organized, and stocked workspace, including treatment areas, procedure rooms, and ORs.
• Restock medications, supplies, and equipment for daily department operations.
• Assist with daily laundry, cleaning protocols, and general hospital upkeep.
• Support adherence to workflow, safety, and communication standards across departments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1+ years experience as a Veterinary Assistant or equivalent animal care role (specialty experience preferred but not required).
• Confident and skilled in safe patient handling for small and large dogs as well as cats.
• Strong understanding of veterinary medical terminology, sterile field etiquette, and basic monitoring of sedated patients.
• Excellent communication, organization, and teamwork skills.
• A passion for patient care, learning, and supporting a collaborative hospital environment.

Schedule & Compensation

• Full-time, 4–5 day work week depending on department needs.
• Shifts may include early mornings, evenings, and rotating weekends.
• Competitive compensation based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package available after probation.

What BBVSH offers:

• Medical and Dental plans
• RRSP
• Uniform allowance
• Substantial staff pet discounts
• Mentorship and support from our hospital teams
• Professional development through our in- house continuing education events

Career Growth at BBVSH

At BBVSH, Veterinary Assistants are provided with structured support and opportunities to grow within a referral and emergency hospital setting. With access to mentorship, ongoing training, and a wide range of advanced cases, VAs gain valuable experience and knowledge that supports long-term career development in the veterinary field.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where your contributions are recognized and your role is truly valued, BBVSH may be the perfect fit for you. Our hospital fosters a culture where every team member is considered essential to the success of our clinical services. This is also an excellent opportunity for veterinary assistants who are eager to expand their skills and knowledge while working alongside experienced technicians, doctors, and specialists in a supportive and collaborative setting.

Take a tour of our hospital:

Due to the number of applications we receive, we will only be looking for candidates that can fill full time hours and commit to at least 1 year of employment.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $18.00-$23.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care

Application question(s):

• Are you looking for full-time or part-time work?
• Are you available for varied shifts including evenings, weekends, or overnights (for ICU/ER)?
• Which department are you interested in applying for?

Work Location: In person