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At KLR Medical Certification Training School, our goal is to continue to offer award-winning
certification programs and empower our students. We recently changed our name to expand
our course offerings, and we began offering a Vet Assistant Course in July 2023.
Veterinary medicine is a crucial part of animal healthcare, and vet assistants play a significant
role in the industry. Let’s explore what a vet assistant is, what they do, where they work, what
education they need, and how they differ from vet techs.
What is a Vet Assistant?
A veterinary assistant is a trained professional who works under the supervision of a
veterinarian or a licensed veterinary technician. They provide basic care to animals, including
feeding, cleaning, and grooming. They may also assist with medical procedures, such as taking
X-rays, administering medications, and collecting samples.
What Do Vet Assistants Do?
Vet assistants perform a variety of tasks to support veterinary staff and maintain the overall
well-being of animals.
Some common responsibilities of vet assistants include:
Assisting veterinarians and vet techs during exams, surgeries, and other medical procedures.
Providing basic animal care, such as feeding, cleaning, and exercising.
Maintaining clean and organized exam rooms, cages, and equipment.
Administering medications and treatments as directed by a veterinarian or vet tech.
Communicating with pet owners about their animal's care and treatment.
Where Do Vet Assistants Work?
Vet assistants can work in a variety of settings, including veterinary clinics, animal hospitals,
animal shelters, and research facilities. They may also work for mobile veterinary services or in zoos and aquariums.
What Education is Needed to Become a Vet Assistant?
While there are no formal education requirements to become a vet assistant, most employers
prefer candidates who have completed a veterinary assistant training program. These programs
typically cover topics such as animal behavior, anatomy, and medical terminology; to name a
few. Students at KLR Medical Certification Training School earn a certification in Veterinary
Medical Applications through Elanco.
How is a Vet Assistant Different Than a Vet Tech?
While vet assistants and vet techs both work in the veterinary industry, their roles and
responsibilities differ significantly. Vet techs are trained professionals who perform more
advanced medical procedures and have a higher level of responsibility than vet assistants. They
can administer medications, take X-rays, and perform diagnostic tests, among other tasks.
What are the Typical Hours for Vet Assistants?
Vet assistants typically work full-time, which
can include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
However, some may work part-time or have
flexible schedules. Those who work in
emergency clinics or animal hospitals may also
be required to work overnight shifts.
What are the Positives of a Career as a Vet Assistant?
Working with animals: For many vet assistants, the opportunity to work with animals is a
significant perk of the job. This can be especially rewarding for those who have a passion for
animal welfare.
Helping animals: Vet assistants play an important role in providing basic care and assisting
with medical procedures, which can help improve the health and well-being of animals.
Opportunity for growth: Some vet assistants may choose to pursue additional education or
certifications to advance their careers and become veterinary technicians or even veterinarians.
What are the Negatives of a Career as a Vet Assistant?
Emotionally challenging: Working with sick or injured animals can be emotionally taxing, and
vet assistants may need to help animals through painful or difficult procedures.
Physical demands: Vet assistants may be required to lift heavy animals or equipment, which
can be physically demanding.
Overview of Course:
The Vet Assistant Course at KLR Medical Certification Training School is an 8-week, fully online instructor-led program. Students meet with the instructor via Zoom on Mondays,
Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm EST. Through group discussions,
interactive projects, and guest speakers from industry professionals students learn the ins and outs of what it takes to be a Vet Assistant and they learn the knowledge needed to pass the
certification exam. If you are ready to embark on your rewarding new career, head over to our
website at www.klronlinecertifications.com and enroll now! Our dedicated instructors are looking forward to meeting you and guiding you on your journey!