Overview

A veterinary assistant works alongside a veterinarian to assist in the medical treatment of sick or injured animals.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Provide daily tactical support to assist veterinarians in health monitoring and diagnostics
• Prepare surgery suites and equipment as well as the animal patient for surgery or examinations
• Feed and weigh animals in assigned care
• Handle and restrain animals to and from veterinary facilities
• Perform animal teeth cleanings
• Administer medications and collect samples such as blood and urine for testing
• Ensure that livestock or animals in assigned care are fed, cleaned, groomed and exercised
• Conduct laboratory work including microbiology, sample serum preparation and supply management
• Maintain medical records of animals
• Keep a sanitary and sterile environment in examination rooms, kennels, cages and/or pens
• Clean and sterilize medical tools and equipment

What education and training is required?

An associate’s degree in animal science, veterinary medicine or veterinary technology is required to become a veterinary assistant or associate.

To pursue a career as a Veterinary Assistant:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, animal science, biology, chemistry, computer courses, and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Veterinary assistants work for animal health companies, livestock production companies, laboratories, clinics, and animal hospitals or animal shelters.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a veterinary assistant will be good over the next five years. 

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• American Veterinary Medical Association
• North American Veterinary Technician Association
• American Association of Feline Veterinarians
• World Small Animal Veterinary Association