Veterinary assistants work in all phases of animal care, including surgical nursing, laboratory procedures and office administration. Veterinary assistants wear many hats, some of the most commonly performed duties are bathing animals and cleaning the facilities, holding animals during procedures, collecting and processing samples for laboratory tests, and front office support. Employment opportunities include positions in veterinary offices or hospitals, zoological facilities, aquatic, equine and retail pet supply or pharmaceutical companies.
Requirements and Responsibilities for Veterinary Assistant
Do not involve yourself in the Doctor/owner conversation
DO NOT MAKE SUGGESTIONS OR COMMENTS TO THE DOCTOR IN THE EXAM ROOM WITH THE CLIENT
How to Become a Veterinary Assistant
For those who love animals, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of veterinary assistant. The compassionate presence of these professionals eases the experience of a visit to the vet for pets and pet owners alike. Veterinary assistants assist veterinarians with every aspect of animal care, and also help manage pet owners’ questions and concerns.
Veterinary assistants are responsible for keeping the animals under their care clean and safe. They bathe, clean and disinfect animal cages, sterilize surgical equipment and perform daily caretaking tasks such as feeding and weighing animals. They administer medications, collect blood, urine and tissue samples for testing, perform lab tests and monitor animals during surgery.
Vet assistants also perform the important task of maintaining the charts that document daily care. In addition to the animal care they provide, veterinary assistants also assist pet owners. They are often the first point of contact for clients, and as such set the tone for their experience.
Veterinary assistants educate pet owners about illnesses, medications and general care, and answer their questions and concerns. Pets are important members of the family in more than 60% of households in the United States today. As integral members of the veterinary care team, veterinary assistants have the reward and satisfaction of assisting these beloved companion animals and their owners.
Veterinary assistants work primarily in veterinary clinics and animal hospitals, and sometimes in laboratories located in research facilities. They work full or part time, and often have the option of flexible hours. Veterinary assistants who work in 24-hour facilities such as animal hospitals will have the opportunity to work evenings, nights, weekends or holidays. It is helpful to be in good physical shape in order to effectively lift, move or restrain animal patients as needed. The ability to focus and stay on task in a loud environment is also helpful, as other animals in the facility can become quite noisy.
Education
Training
Necessary Skills and Qualities
Opportunities for Advancement
Article by Veronica Hackethal
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