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Veterinary Assistant

About Our Program

What is a Veterinary Assistant?

VA Approved Program

The veterinary assistant supports the veterinarian and/or the veterinary technician in their daily tasks. The assistant may be asked to perform kennel work, assist in the restraint and handling of animals, feed and exercise the animals, and spend time on clerical duties. There is no credentialing exam for the veterinary assistant. The ability to follow directions, listen and communicate efficiently, and handle multiple assignments are skills that a veterinary assistant should demonstrate. The essential skills you will learn in this program will help you keep animals healthy, care for them when they are ill, and assist veterinarians in their offices.

Our program will teach you how to:

  • Interact with animals and their owners.
  • Obtain animal health histories and records.
  • Understand veterinary medical terminology.
  • Recognize the major breeds of various animals.
  • Assist the veterinarian with caring for animals.
  • Assist with surgical and treatment procedures.
  • Recognize signs and symptoms of illness and disease.
  • Perform administrative duties in the veterinarians office.

Contact

 

This course is a 60-hour certificate program. Learn invaluable veterinary hospital and office procedures and the skills needed to succeed as a Veterinary Assistant. From professional conduct, laws and effects on policy and procedures to front office and exam room procedures and administrative duties. In addition, you will learn restraint, safety concerns and basic procedures for small animals. A textbook is required at an additional cost. Students must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

Web |11203| $550 plus textbook
Tuesday | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
9/9/25–12/9/25
Saturdays: 9/27, 10/25, 11/15, and 12/6
Instructor: Andrea Forry

Note: This course is offered online using learning management system (Canvas) and video conference program (Zoom) Tuesdays at scheduled times and in-person on Saturdays: 9/27, 10/25, 11/15, and 12/6 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon. The Internet and webcam required.

ANDREA FORRY holds a B.S. in Animal Science from the University of Rhode Island, and a Certification in Veterinary Technician. She has taught the Veterinary Assisting Certificate course since 2007. She has worked in both private practice and shelter medicine since 1996. Andrea has worked with national rescue/humane organizations as well as municipal animal control centers.

 

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Certificate of Completion

A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of the course.