Information on Becoming a Vet Assistant

A veterinary assistant performs a variety of duties.

People interested in a career in the veterinary field have a number of options to choose from. Of these options, becoming a veterinary assistant is the least time-consuming and least expensive. A love of animals and a strong desire to help them are absolute necessities for anyone looking to become a vet assistant. The ability to perform basic clerical, janitorial and medical-assisting duties is also needed.

Identification

The hierarchy of veterinary careers starts at the top with the veterinarian, who has had eight or more years of schooling. Veterinary technologists and technicians, who have two to four years of schooling, assist the veterinarian. Veterinary assistants assist both veterinarians and vet techs as well as perform all-purpose jobs around an animal hospital, clinic, zoo, laboratory or veterinary practice. No credentialing exam or schooling requirements exist for veterinary assistants.

Training

Veterinary assistants usually receive on-the-job training, according to The National Association of Veterinary Technicians of America (NAVTA). Although no formal training is required, high school courses, college-certificate programs and technical-school programs exist to provide potential vet assistants with additional information and training. These programs improve your chances of employment and potentially securing a higher starting salary.

Time Frame

Because there are no formal requirements for becoming a vet assistant, training may take as little as a week when provided by the employer. Like any other job, veterinary-assistant training is an ongoing process, with new skills learned as they are needed. The biggest factor in determining how long it takes to become a vet assistant is the willingness of the employer.

Considerations

If you are interested in becoming a vet assistant, search out local job listings or call local veterinary practices directly and ask if they are hiring anyone with your qualifications. Prepare a resume highlighting your job history and pertinent skills. Desirable skills include sound interpersonal communication techniques, receptionist or clerical skills, the ability to follow instructions, and housekeeping and cleaning skills. Past work history or volunteer history working with animals is also desirable and should be noted on your resume. Responsible pet ownership is another great quality to mention, according to "The Veterinary Receptionist's Handbook."

Benefits

Vet assistant jobs may be full or part time. Benefits and salary vary by employer and are affected by the employee's training and tenure. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies veterinary assistants as "nonfarm animal caretakers." Of nonfarm animal caretakers, those working in the veterinary field earned median annual wages of $18,380, as reported to the BLS in May 2008.

References

• "The Veterinary Receptionist's Handbook"; M.T. McClister and Amy Midgley; 2000
• NAVTA: FAQ
• The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics: Animal Care and Service Workers
• "Wanted: Animal Volunteers"; Mary R. Burch; 2002
• "Volunteer Management for Animal Care Organizations (Shelter Management);" Betsy McFarland; 2005