Program Overview

Veterinary Assistant Program

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.

Program Overview

The program is 100% online and can be completed at the student's pace. It provides training in anatomy and physiology, medical records, communication, and animal handling. The program also covers nutrition, vaccinations, and medication administration.

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.

Course Objectives

The program aims to teach students:

• Anatomy and physiology of major organ systems
• Handling medical records and communication with clients and coworkers
• Restraining animals for procedures, taking vital signs, and bathing them
• Nutrition, vaccinations, and medication administration
• Preparing prescriptions, taking blood samples, and radiographs

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to take this course. The course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Instructors

The program is taught by experienced instructors, including Jeff Grognet, a companion animal veterinarian with 25 years of experience.

Course Curriculum

The course curriculum includes:

• Getting Started
• Physiology and Anatomy
• Front Office Duties
• Restraint and Handling
• Medical Procedures
• Nutrition and Vaccinations
• Medication Administration
• Radiographs and Personal Safety
• Pain Recognition and Emergency Care
• Dentistry and Parasites
• Surgery and Animal Behavior

FAQ

What Does a Veterinary Assistant Do?

A veterinary assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians with basic tasks, such as feeding, weighing, and bathing animals.

Do Veterinary Assistants Handle Administrative Duties?

Some veterinary assistants perform clerical work, such as scheduling appointments and speaking with customers.

What's the Difference Between a Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician?

Veterinary assistants are trained through a certificate program, while veterinary technicians have a formal education and work as the nurse of a veterinarian.

Can I Go From a Veterinary Assistant to a Veterinary Technician?

Yes, with additional education and licensing, a veterinary assistant can become a veterinary technician.