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Veterinary Assistant

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The Veterinary Assistant program prepares learners for a new career in the field of veterinary medicine. Participants will learn about the care of animals as well as how to recognize signs of illness and disease in a variety of animals from common pets to exotic species. This program also covers interpersonal communication, interaction with clients and their animals, as well as how to assist the veterinarian during examinations. Administrative duties, such as fee collection, banking, and accounts payable are also emphasized to provide learners with the skills necessary to maintain an efficient front office.

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There is 1 course in this program

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Veterinary Assistant

The Veterinary Assistant program prepares learners for a new career in the field of veterinary medicine. Participants will learn about the care of animals as well as how to recognize signs of illness and disease in a variety of animals from common pets to exotic species. This program also covers interpersonal communication, interaction with clients and their animals, as well as how to assist the veterinarian during examinations. Administrative duties, such as fee collection, banking, and accounts payable are also emphasized to provide learners with the skills necessary to maintain an efficient front office. This veterinary assisting course is a vital asset to learners who wish to work in this exciting and rewarding field.

Employment of veterinary assistants and caretakers of laboratory animals is expected to grow 9% to 2030, faster than average for this occupation. As more and more Americans are adopting pets, the pet population continues to increase at a steady pace. Additionally, technological and medical advancements veterinary medicine are helping to boost the level of care for pets at a cost that used to be out of reach, further contributing to the rising demand for veterinary medicine generally, and veterinary assistants in particular. The veterinary assistant can expect to obtain a position mainly in clinics, animal hospitals and research laboratories but grooming facilities, pet day cares and boarding facilities would be in need of individuals with these skills as well.

Requirements: High School Diploma or GED

Program Details

  • Hybrid Program
  • Hands-On Labs
  • Textbooks & Materials Included
  • National Certification Opportunity
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Clinical Externship Opportunity

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience.  As learners progress through their eLearning program, an Externship Coordinator will reach out to coordinate placement.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.

Health and Allied Services

Veterinary Assistant
Median Salary

$38,210 *

The median salary in the New York metropolitan area is $38,210, in New York State $37,510, and $34,740 in the United States*.

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Also called Animal Care Provider, Animal Caregiver, Certified Veterinary Assistant and Veterinarian Assistant (Vet Assistant)

*Based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (USBLS OEWS)

📈 Grow Rapidly

This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

🚪 Openings

New job opportunities are very likely in the future.