Veterinary Assistant
The responsibilities of a veterinary assistant are very similar to those of a veterinary technician, as they both focus on the proper care of animals. The daily duties of a vet assistant may include sanitation of the facility as well as sterilization of medical instruments and equipment. They are accountable for the care of all the animals within the clinic including feeding/watering, cleaning, and administering medical treatments. Veterinary assistants prepare animals for their examinations, surgeries, and vaccinations as well as help the veterinarian carry out all of these procedures. They are able to fill prescriptions and conduct various laboratory tests, such as a Parvo test for a sick puppy.
Radiology can be performed by a vet assistant, as well as minor dental work on a pet’s mouth. Urinalysis, blood tests, and venipuncture, are also done at the hand of a veterinary assistant or a veterinary technician. X-rays are both captured and reviewed by them under veterinarian supervision. Vaccinations are commonly given by an assistant, allowing the veterinarian to point their efforts toward crisis situations and surgeries. All of these clinical tasks are performed in addition to many clerical duties, such as record management and customer service. Medical assistants in the veterinary field are trained and passionate about their career, thus striving to provide your pet with the most advanced and best in healthcare.
The veterinary field is experiencing a rapid growth in career opportunities, opening doors to individuals who have completed courses in veterinary technology- an exciting career awaits them! Adequate training and clinical practice is required and an exam will be mandatory if you are seeking certification as a veterinary technician. The veterinary school you attend must be accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in order for your veterinary program to be nationally recognized and accepted. Completion of a veterinary program will reveal a world of opportunities for animal-lovers…and now trained veterinary assistants.
Some may find their calling as a lab caretaker, animal behaviorist, or a dog groomer. Zoos and animal sanctuaries are also in constant need of vet techs and medical assistants to care for their exotic animals and aid in the treatment of any medical ailments. Vet assistants are often found working at animal hospitals, as their primary functions include both administrative and clinical duties. Boarding facilities and humane societies also benefit greatly from the employment of veterinary assistant, including disease control and on-site medical treatment.
The average salary for a veterinary assistant ranges from the lower $21,000 a year up to the high end of $46,000. The average wage for an individual employed in the veterinary field is between $10.25 and $14.00 an hour, varying indefinitely state-to-state and the rate is often based upon experience. Besides the monetary factor, a career as a veterinary assistant will prove to richly rewarding in both spirit and mind.
