July 16, 2025 | British Columbia

If you love animals and want to make a career out of helping them, becoming a veterinary assistant is one of the most accessible and rewarding paths in the animal care field. But how exactly do you get a job as a veterinary assistant in Canada? Whether you’re just starting out or switching careers, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to land your first job, from training and experience to resumes, interviews, and finding the right employer. We’ll also show you how the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College can help you hit the ground running. 

Steps to Get a Job as a Veterinary Assistant in Canada?

Step 1: Get the Right Education 

You don’t need a university degree to work as a veterinary assistant, but completing a recognized diploma program will give you a huge advantage in the job market. At CDI College, the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma takes just 40 weeks to complete and covers:  
 

• Animal anatomy, behaviour, and nutrition  
• Clinical care, surgery prep, and lab procedures  
• Veterinary terminology and medical records  
• Office reception, communication, and client education  
• Industry certifications (WHMIS 2015, First Aid CPR-C, DOGSAFE® Canine First Aid) 
   

You’ll also complete a 120-hour practicum at a real veterinary facility, giving you hands-on experience and employer references before you graduate. 
 

Bonus Read: How to Become a Veterinary Assistant in Canada?     

Step 2: Build Practical Experience 

Veterinary clinics love hiring people who are already comfortable handling animals and understand clinic environments. Some great ways to gain experience: 
 

• Volunteer at animal shelters or rescue centres 
• Assist at a pet boarding or grooming business 
• Shadow a vet or tech at your local clinic 
   

Your practicum through CDI College also counts as valuable work experience and often leads to job offers. 

Step 3: Create a Professional Resume and Cover Letter 

Make sure your resume is clean, clear, and highlights both your education and any animal-related experience. 

 
Tips:  
 

• Use bullet points to outline responsibilities from past roles - 
• List your certifications and practicum details  
• Emphasize soft skills like compassion, organization, and teamwork  
• Tailor your resume to each clinic you apply to 
   

Your cover letter should be warm and professional, showing your passion for animal care and your commitment to learning and growing in the role. CDI College’s Career Services team offers resume-writing workshops and one-on-one support to help you present your best self. 

Step 4: Start Applying for Jobs 

Now comes the exciting part: applying! Veterinary assistants are in demand in:  
 

• Veterinary clinics and hospitals  
• Animal shelters and humane societies  
• Pet daycares and boarding kennels  
• Grooming salons  
• Zoos and wildlife centres  
• Pet supply retailers and pharmaceutical companies 
   

Where to look:  

• Job boards (Indeed, WorkBC, Job Bank)  
• Local veterinary clinics’ websites  
• Networking with practicum hosts or instructors  
• LinkedIn and social media 
   

Many CDI graduates find jobs through contacts they make during their practicum. 

Bonus Read: How Long Does It Take to Become a Veterinary Assistant?   

Step 5: Prepare for the Interview 

Veterinary assistant interviews usually include questions about:  

• Your experience with animals  
• How you handle stressful situations  
• Your ability to work on a team  
• Your understanding of the role 
   

You might also be asked to demonstrate how you would approach a nervous pet or clean a kennel properly. Pro Tip: Practice answering common questions out loud and consider doing a mock interview with a CDI career advisor. 

What Employers Look For 

Veterinary clinics want assistants who are:  
 

• Patient and gentle with animals  
• Clear communicators  
• Team players  
• Organized and proactive  
• Physically able to handle animal handling and cleaning duties 
   

A formal diploma from a respected institution like CDI College shows you’re committed, knowledgeable, and ready to work. 

Why Choose CDI College? 

The Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College is designed with employability in mind. You get:  

• Comprehensive, hands-on training  
• Real-world experience through practicum  
• Resume and interview support from Career Services  
• Certifications that employers recognize and value  
• A diploma that prepares you to work anywhere in Canada 

It’s a smart, fast-track way to start your career in animal care. 

Final Thoughts 

Getting a job as a veterinary assistant in Canada is absolutely within reach, especially when you have the right training and support. Start by enrolling in a diploma program like CDI College’s, gain hands-on experience, build your resume, and confidently apply for roles where you can do what you love: helping animals live healthier, happier lives. Are you ready to take the first step? Contact CDI College today and start your journey to becoming a veterinary assistant.