Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary assistants feed, water, and examine pets and other nonfarm animals for injuries, diseases, and illnesses. They may work in laboratories, animal hospitals, zoos, and clinics. They handle the mundane aspects of a veterinary facility such as sterilization of equipment, cleaning and disinfecting cages, and providing clerical services and routine operative care. They Bureau of Labor Statistics refer to them as, “Animal Care and Service Workers.”

To learn more about veterinary assistant school and the veterinary assistant program options available, feel free to request additional information.

Salary

Wages are considered low. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median wage of $19,000 in 2008. The bottom 10 percent earned $15,000 and the top 10 percent earned $31,000 and more. Salary growth is largely dependent on progression to a managerial role or another veterinary position through additional veterinary assistant school courses.

Training and Qualifications

A high school degree is the minimum required, although many employers prefer to hire candidates with an associate degree or vocational training from a veterinary assistant program. More competitive positions, such as zoos and highly established veterinary clinics, may even require a bachelor degree from a veterinary assistant school or equivalent; for example, marine mammal trainers need a bachelor degree in biology, marine biology, animal science, psychology, or a related field. Veterinary technician degrees may also qualify for veterinary assistant jobs.

A love for animals is a must. Workshops are also available for specializations, such as dog training. Volunteering in a local zoo is also a plus. There are certifications and licensures available for veterinary assistants and associated careers, variable by location.

Job Outlook

The demand for veterinary assistants is high due to its turnover; many workers leave for other veterinary occupations, such as veterinarian and veterinary technologist. The competition is keen for zoo-related jobs, though. In the 2008-2018 decade, the amount of veterinary assistant jobs available is expected to grow 21%.

Advancement

Advancement largely depends upon the environment that the veterinary assistant works within. For example, a veterinary assistant that specializes in the treatment of animals in animal shelter’s clinic may later move to a managerial position within that shelter.

Advancement is also available with additional education, including advancing to a veterinary technician or veterinarian role.

Learn More

To learn more veterinary assistant program options available from a veterinary assistant school or other colleges, fill out the following form. Alternatively, check out veterinary technologist.