Veterinary Assistant & Receptionist

About the role

VCA Animal Hospitals is seeking a motivated Veterinary Assistant and Receptionist to join the East Hants Animal Hospital team in Elmsdale, NS. This dual‑support position blends front‑desk customer service with hands‑on assistance to veterinarians and technicians, ensuring pets and their owners feel welcomed and well‑cared for.

Key responsibilities

• Create a warm, welcoming environment for clients and their pets.
• Answer a multiline phone system, schedule appointments, and make outbound follow‑up calls.
• Manage email correspondence with clients, referring veterinarians, and internal staff.
• Admit and discharge patients, handle invoicing, billing, and payment processing.
• Assist veterinary staff with treatments, animal restraint, and routine tasks.
• Maintain cleanliness of reception, holding, exam, and treatment areas.
• Occasionally share shifts with other VCA locations as needed.

Required profile

• Previous client‑service experience, preferably in a veterinary setting.
• Strong customer‑service orientation with a genuine love for small companion animals.
• Certificate from a Veterinary Assistant (VA) or Veterinary Office Assistant (VOA) program is an asset.

Required skills

• Proficiency with multiline phone systems and appointment‑scheduling tools.
• Basic invoicing and billing procedures.
• Ability to safely restrain animals.

What we offer

• Competitive wages and benefits, including RRSP matching.
• Annual uniform allowance and pet‑care discounts.
• Career development opportunities and a supportive wellness culture.
• Employee assistance program, referral bonuses, and community‑giving initiatives.