Program Overview

Veterinary Assistant Program

Overview

The Veterinary Assistant program is designed to train individuals to become veterinary assistants, providing them with the necessary skills to support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal care. The program is offered entirely online, allowing students to pursue their passion for animal care from anywhere.

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of a veterinary assistant is currently just over $26,000 per year. Jobs are expected to increase by 19% through 2026, which is considered much faster than average positions. This growth indicates a high demand for skilled veterinary assistants in the industry.

Role of a Veterinary Assistant

The primary responsibility of a veterinary assistant is to support veterinarians and veterinary technicians with basic tasks. These tasks may include:

• Feeding, weighing, bathing, and taking the temperature of animals
• Assisting with medical procedures
• Administering medication
• Cleaning cages and helping to restrain animals during treatment Some veterinary assistants may also perform clerical work, such as scheduling appointments and handling client communications.

Difference Between Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician

Veterinary assistants typically receive training through a certificate program and assist with basic duties. In contrast, veterinary technicians have a formal education, usually an associate's degree accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and work as the nurse of a veterinarian.

Career Advancement

It is possible for a veterinary assistant to pursue additional education and become a veterinary technician. Working as a veterinary assistant can provide valuable experience and understanding of the industry, making it a great first step towards a career as a veterinary technician.

Course Objectives

The Veterinary Assistant program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties effectively. Course objectives include:

• Understanding the anatomy and physiology of major organ systems
• Handling medical records and communicating with clients and coworkers
• Restraining animals for procedures and taking vital signs
• Administering nutrition, vaccinations, and medication
• Preparing prescriptions and taking blood samples and radiographs

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to enroll in the Veterinary Assistant program.

Curriculum

The program curriculum is comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Introduction to the veterinary hospital
• Physiology and anatomy of animals
• Front office duties and client relations
• Restraint techniques for dogs, cats, and exotic animals
• Medical procedures and vital signs
• Nutrition and vaccination basics
• Prescription preparation and medication administration
• Radiography and personal safety
• Pain recognition and emergency care
• Dentistry and dental care
• Parasites and poisonings in pets
• Surgery preparation and assistance
• Understanding animal behavior

Instructor

The program is taught by experienced instructors, including Jeff Grognet, a companion animal veterinarian with over 25 years of experience. Mr. Grognet has developed and taught veterinary assistant courses for over 18 years and contributes regularly to several magazines.

Program Details

The Veterinary Assistant program is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the skills and knowledge required to succeed in this field. With its comprehensive curriculum and experienced instructors, the program prepares students for a rewarding career as a veterinary assistant.