Do You Need to Go to College to Become a Vet Assistant?
Veterinary health care is a growing business. Vast numbers of pets live in American homes, and owners are willing to pay for state-of-the-art care for their beloved animals. Veterinary assistants, although considered entry-level employees in animal care, are vital members of the animal health care team, providing a variety of services as needed.
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Job Responsibilities
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A veterinary assistant helps animals and veterinary personnel. Responsibilities can include feeding, bathing and exercising animals; sterilizing laboratory and surgical equipment; restraining and handling animals; and performing clerical/administrative work.
Educational Levels
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Being a veterinary assistant does not require certification or licensing; however, completion of a college certification program is preferred. A high school diploma or GED is required.
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Hands-On Experience
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Veterinary assistants do not take credentialing examinations. Many individuals are trained on the job. This knowledge can be obtained in a variety of settings, such as animal hospitals, shelters, zoos or animal parks.
Veterinary Assistant Programs
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Numerous educational programs help individuals gain knowledge, basic skills and abilities necessary to fulfill an entry-level position in a veterinary office. These programs require application of basic math, technical reading and communication skills.
Benefits of Education
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An individual who enrolls in a veterinary program obtains experience needed to assume more complicated tasks in the workplace. Certified assistants need significantly less workplace training than individuals without continued education.
Program Advantages
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Veterinary programs can usually be completed in less than a year. Participants are awarded certification upon completion of the programs and may also receive job-placement assistance.
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