What does a veterinary assistant do?
The number one job of a veterinary assistant is to assist the veterinarian and veterinarian technicians with basic tasks. As a veterinary assistant, you may feed, weigh and take the temperature of various animals. You may also help give medication, clean cages, and provide nursing care for animals when they have surgery or other medical procedures. You may also bathe and exercise animals as needed and help restrain them during treatment. As a veterinary assistant, it is also your responsibility to clean and sterilize equipment and exam rooms. Some veterinary assistants even perform clerical work such as scheduling appointments and speaking with customers as well. The duties vary widely, but all are important to ensuring the health and well-being of animals inside the veterinary practice.
How to become a veterinary assistant?
The typical career path for a veterinary assistant involves earning a high school diploma or GED, enrolling in a certificate course, learning the specifics of the job, and gaining skills that will help you in your new role. After earning a certificate of completion, you will be prepared to begin work as a veterinary assistant.
How much do veterinary assistants make?
According to Indeed.com, the average salary for veterinary assistants is $31,904, with those who have more than 10 years of experience earning over $37,000.
What is the difference between a veterinary assistant and a veterinary?
While the people in both these jobs may work in the same location (and potentially with the same animals), they perform very different roles. Veterinary assistants most likely have received training through a certificate program and training on the job by veterinary technicians to help with basic duties like setting up equipment and cleaning areas of the clinic like surgery sites. Veterinary technicians, or vet techs, have a formal education—likely a two- or four-year degree accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. They are also required to pass a licensing exam in most states. In short, veterinary technicians can perform more advanced clinical tasks under a veterinarian's supervision to help treat animals.
Do I need to obtain certification to work as a veterinary assistant?
No, you do not need to obtain certification to work as a veterinary assistant. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there is no required credentialing exam for veterinary assistants.
Does this course provide a veterinary assistant certification?
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America has a certification course that began in 2012. Currently, this requires attending a college that also has a veterinary technician certification course. Once NAVTA creates a way for online courses to lead to certification, we will be exploring this avenue.
Does this program
prepare for a certification?
Upon completion of this course you will receive a
certificate in Horse Care Management and Veterinary Assistant.
Can I register for a course if I am an international student?
Yes, ed2go courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification.
When can I start the course?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
How long does it take to complete a course?
All of our courses are self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start them when you want and finish them at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive eighteen (18) months to complete the course.
What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
What kind of support will I receive?
The course instructor will be available by email to answer any questions and provide feedback on your performance. Occasionally, your course may be supported by a team of industry experts. You will also receive support from the student advising team.
What happens when I complete the course?
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
Am I guaranteed a job?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
Can I get financial assistance?
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.
How can I get more information about this course?
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.