Veterinary jobs Calgary

As Alberta’s largest metropolitan hub, Calgary is quickly emerging as one of the most attractive cities in Canada for veterinary professionals. In 2025, the demand for skilled veterinary staff continues to climb as pet ownership rises, clinics expand, and animal wellness becomes an increasing priority among residents. For veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and assistants alike, Calgary offers a thriving professional landscape full of opportunity, stability, and professional development.

Why veterinary professionals are choosing Calgary

Calgary stands out not just for its majestic landscapes and proximity to the Rockies, but also for the rich professional opportunities it offers:

• A booming population that includes many pet-loving families
• A balance of urban lifestyle and access to rural veterinary challenges
• A growing network of advanced veterinary clinics and specialty hospitals

In addition, Alberta’s strong economy, lower tax rates, and high quality of life make Calgary an ideal place to settle and grow a sustainable and rewarding career.

High-demand veterinary positions in Calgary

The veterinary sector in Calgary is actively recruiting across all levels. Clinics are searching for passionate professionals ready to make a meaningful impact and become part of a collaborative and caring environment.

Veterinarians (DVM)

• Daily responsibilities include diagnosing, treating, and managing a variety of animal health conditions.
• Positions available in general practice, emergency care, surgical departments, and specialized fields like oncology, cardiology, and dermatology.
• Leadership roles often include mentoring junior staff, overseeing operations, and shaping clinic standards and patient care models.

Registered veterinary technicians (RVT)

• Work in tandem with veterinarians, handling technical aspects such as anesthesia monitoring, blood draws, imaging, dental cleanings, and lab diagnostics.
• Often serve as client educators, helping pet owners understand diagnoses, procedures, and long-term care plans.
• Some RVTs specialize in emergency or surgical departments, while others work in wellness care, rehabilitation, or exotics medicine.

Veterinary assistants

• Essential for daily clinical flow, including preparing exam rooms, assisting with animal restraint, post-operative care, and cleaning protocols.
• Provide reception, administrative support, and client interaction in many Calgary clinics.
• Increasingly integrated into holistic patient care, especially in smaller or community-focused clinics where teamwork is crucial.

Compensation, Benefits & Career Growth (2025 Outlook)

In Calgary, veterinary salaries are trending upward, especially for experienced candidates or those in high-demand specialties. Clinics are investing more in talent retention and staff wellness.

• Veterinarians (DVM): $110,000 to $170,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and specialty area
• RVTs: $30 to $45 per hour, with increasing opportunities for leadership and specialization

Additional incentives include:

• Continuing education (CE) allowances and licensing reimbursements
• Comprehensive health and dental insurance, mental health support programs
• Flexible schedules, generous PTO, RRSP matching, and parental leave
• Paid Fear-Free® certification, team-building retreats, and staff appreciation events

What Are Calgary’s clinics like?

Modern veterinary clinics across Calgary are known for investing in high-quality tools and innovative treatment methods. These environments are designed for efficiency, collaboration, and compassionate care.

• Digital radiology, ultrasonography, and in-house diagnostic labs
• Cloud-based patient management systems and telehealth integration
• Specialty departments for internal medicine, dermatology, exotics, and oncology
• Commitment to low-stress animal handling, client communication, and ongoing staff training

These clinics prioritize a positive work environment, collaboration, and team mentorship, creating space for continuous professional development.

Calgary’s veterinary hotspots

Veterinary employment opportunities are widely distributed across Calgary:

• Downtown core & beltline: Ideal for those seeking high-paced environments and exposure to specialty practices and urgent care
• Seton, Signal Hill, Evanston: Suburban neighborhoods with family-focused small animal clinics and high patient volumes
• Outskirts & Rural Zones: Offer mixed-animal and large-animal opportunities for those looking to diversify their skills or return to traditional veterinary practice

Each zone provides a distinct working pace and caseload variety depending on your career preferences and lifestyle goals.

Licensing and application tips

To work legally in Calgary, you must:

• Be registered with the ABVMA (Alberta Veterinary Medical Association)
• Ensure your education credentials meet Canadian standards (especially for international graduates)
• Demonstrate strong English communication skills and cultural sensitivity
• Highlight team collaboration, adaptability, empathy, and client service in your resume and cover letter

Pro Tip: Tailor your CV to Canadian expectations — clear formatting, measurable results, and a strong professional summary are key.

Your veterinary career in Calgary starts now

Calgary is not just another city — it’s a veterinary career destination. Whether you’re a seasoned DVM looking for leadership, a recent RVT graduate ready to learn, or an experienced assistant searching for growth, this city offers the professional support, financial stability, and lifestyle you’ve been seeking.

Calgary is where professional goals become reality — where innovation, collaboration, and compassion drive your veterinary journey forward.

Start exploring opportunities today and take the next step in your veterinary future — in Calgary, Alberta’s dynamic and rapidly evolving veterinary hub.