Veterinary assistants are the ‘jack of all trades’ in the veterinary profession. Their job touches every different part of a busy veterinary hospital or clinic. As a veterinary assistant you will perform reception functions, fill prescriptions, keep exam rooms and kennels cleaned and prepped, set up lab work, assist with inventory, update medical records, assist with nursing care, assist with surgical preparation and procedure, and perform radio-graphic procedures. Your assistance provides invaluable help to veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians.
- Administer common medications.
- Handle animals.
- Assist in filling prescriptions.
- Set up lab work.
- Assist with nursing care and surgical preparation.
After completing the Veterinary Assisting program, students will be able to:
- Describe the interpersonal skills and professional characteristics of an effective veterinary assistant, explain where employment opportunities can be found for those with training in animal care, and outline typical daily responsibilities.
- Use appropriate veterinary terminology to describe basic concepts of anatomy and physiology, pathology and disease, pharmacology, dentistry, and nutrition, as they apply to animals.
- Describe how to determine the difference between emergency medical conditions and less critical medical ailments by identifying symptoms, signs, and clinical signs, and by reading animal body language.
- Explain the fundamental quality control processes used to safely handle and treat both healthy and sick/injured animals, such as when conducting physical examinations, collecting samples, conducting tests, performing procedures, and making observations.
- Identify standard procedures used in the animal care laboratory and surgical center and describe the functions, use, and maintenance of the specialized equipment and instruments found there.
- Interact with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, clients, and animals, displaying professional skills, appearance, and ethics in a work-experience setting.
A Diploma will be awarded to those students who will successfully complete all required courses as per college’s Satisfactory Academic Requirements and fulfill their financial obligation towards the college.
Applicants may enroll on any school day. At the time of enrollment, the applicant will be informed of the next start date. A high school diploma, General Education Diploma (GED), a college transcript, or equivalent is required to be accepted into a program.
REGISTRATION
- Applicants must provide a proof of high school diploma, GED, college transcript or equivalent.
- Applicants must complete and sign an enrollment agreement.
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers are in demand: The job outlook for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers is expected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations¹. Pet owners are projected to spend more on their animals, which is driving the growing demand for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers. And if you are or want to train to become a veterinary assistant in Indiana, refer to this link.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinary-assistants-and-laboratory-animal-caretakers.htm (visited October 05, 2021). Data reflects a national projected percentage change in employment from 2020-2030 and may not reflect local economic conditions. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319096.htm#st
A career in this field may require you to meet certain licensing, training, and other requirements that can vary by vocation and state. You should check with your state, local government and/or licensing board to find out which requirements may be applicable in your state.
Stellar Career College, Indiana satellite location is approved the Indiana Commission for Higher Education (ICHE), 101 West Ohio Street, Suite 300, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204-4206. Phone Number 317-464-4400 or www.che.in.gov.
