Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary assistants, also called animal attendants, animal caretakers, animal hospital attendants, animal ward nurses, or animal health assistants, help veterinarians in feeding, comforting, and providing medical care and other services to animals. Veterinary assistants perform routine tasks such as feeding, watering, bathing, and exercising animals. They also may greet and make appointments for clients and answer telephone calls. They are usually supervised by veterinarians, biomedical research workers, and other scientists.

Work Environment
Most veterinary assistants work in veterinary offices, veterinary hospitals, kennels, research institutes, or zoos.

Job Outlook
Employment opportunities for veterinary assistants are expected to increase.

Advancement
In large veterinary practices, veterinary assistants can become practice managers.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Veterinary assistants receive on-the-job training and may have some postsecondary education, such as trade school or junior college.

Licensure/Certification
Veterinary assistants require no certification, registration, or licensure.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $15,000 - $22,000.

Educational Programs
Grayson Community College
Palo Alto College
North Harris Co. Montgomery Community College District Tomball College