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Veterinary Assistant

Continuing Education Workforce Certificate

Format

In-person

Location

Essex

​Veterinary Assistants assist in kennel care, assist veterinary technicians during exams of animals and provide support throughout the veterinary office. They are often employed at animal shelters, animal emergency centers and veterinary practices.​



The Veterinary Assistant training program features courses that will prepare individuals interested in working with animals in an entry-level position in animal shelters, animal emergency centers and veterinary practices.



Veterinary assistants should have some basic personal qualities and skills to ensure a successful career. They need to be compassionate toward both animals and their owners in order to provide effective care and education. Dispensing medication and following specific instructions requires strict attention to detail, and strong listening and communication skills is a benefit to working with coworkers. In addition, veterinary assistants should have a strong customer service orientation, especially when greeting clients and making phone calls.



Career Outlook: Veterinary offices are always looking for entry level staff. Students are often times hired at the site where they completed their clinical hours. The Occupational Information Network, O*NET, is an online database of occupations, job descriptions and wages for career paths sponsored by the U.S. Dept. of Labor. This information is free to the public at www.onetonline.org ; enter 31-9096.00 for Veterinary Assistant Information ​​



Program Course Sequence

Course Number

Course Title

Course Hours

Textbook Information

(approximate cost; subject to change)

Costs

T=Tuition/F=Fees

AHE752

Veterinary Assistant I

30

Handouts online

$440

T-$132/F-$308

AHE753

Veterinary Assistant II

30

Handouts online

$330

T-$99/F-$231

AHE754

Veterinary Assistant III

30

Handouts online

$330

T-$99/F-$231

AHE755

Veterinary Assistant IV (Clinical)

45

None

$220

T-$66/F-$154

Course Series Totals:

135

$1,320

T-$396/F-$924

Full Program Details