What is a Vet Assistant?
Veterinary assistants fill an important role in veterinary offices as well as other organizations, such as animal shelters. For some people it is a solid long-term career option; for others it may be a starting point to move into a veterinary technician position or another animal care role. Learn about the basics of this role and determine if it's for you.
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Duties
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Vet assistants help veterinarians by restraining animals, gathering an animal's health history from the owner and performing simple tasks like taking a pet's temperature. They may also assist with some routine tasks such as cleaning and clerical work.
Requirements
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There are no formal training or licensing requirements, although a high school diploma or equivalent may be required. The main skills necessary are a passion to help animals, ability to take direction and learn on the job, and customer service skills.
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Training
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For individuals who do want formal education or training prior to beginning a role as a vet assistant, programs are available through community colleges and via several online education programs. See the Resources section for some options.
Compensation
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Compensation will vary depending on the geographic location and type of practice that an individual works for. An individual's experience and level of education can also be factors that affect compensation. Pay rates start at minimum wage but can be higher for certain individuals or after time in the role.
Options
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Vet assistants can work in small animal practices with cats, dogs, ferrets and similar pets, or in large animal practices with farm animals or horses. They can also get jobs in specialty clinics, animal shelters, animal hospitals and marine animal facilities.
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