Veterinary Programs

Veterinary Assisting

Prepare for a hands-on role in animal care with Carrington College’s Veterinary Assisting/Veterinary Assistant programs. Learn to assist Veterinarians and Veterinary Techs with a variety of exams and procedures, provide surgical support, lab diagnostics, and veterinary office administration. Earn your Certificate of Achievement in as few as 9 months while gaining real-world experience through a clinical externship.
Carrington's Veterinary Assisting Hero

REAL WORLD SKILLS

With many classes to guide you, you’re certain to be prepared for your career.

FLEXIBLE LEARNING OPTIONS

Conveniently available at multiple locations in Arizona, California, Oregon, and Washington. Blended program option available at some locations.

AFFORDABLE TUITION

Affordable tuition varies by program and location.

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Discover What It’s Like to Train to Become a Veterinary Assistant at Carrington College

Veterinary Assistant Career Opportunities

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, increases in consumers’ pet-related spending are expected to drive employment in the veterinary services industry.1 In clinics and other veterinary service establishments, assistants help with various procedures. Demand for veterinary assistants will continue as the demand for these procedures increases.

What Will I Learn?

Veterinary Surgical and Assisting Techniques

Veterinary Hospital Practices

Animal Nursing and Care

Check out our guide on becoming a Veterinary Assistant.

Have you always wanted to work in a veterinary setting, but don’t want to attend school for years? Then a job as a veterinary assistant might be a good career for you. Veterinary assistants work in a variety of roles in veterinary offices and clinical settings supporting the licensed staff with technical tasks.

Veterinary Assisting FAQ

  • How long does it take to be a vet assistant?

    Carrington College’s hands-on Veterinary Assisting program can be completed in as few as nine months.

  • What does a vet assistant do?

    As stated by the BLS, veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers are responsible for the following tasks:2

    • Feeding, bathing, and exercising animals
    • Cleaning and disinfecting cages, kennels, and examination and operating rooms
    • Restraining animals during examination and laboratory procedures
    • Maintaining and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment
    • Monitoring and care for animals after surgery
    • Helping provide emergency first aid to sick and injured animals
    • Giving medication or immunizations that veterinarians prescribe
    • Assisting in collecting blood, urine, and tissue samples

  • What is the difference between a vet tech and a vet assistant?

    Veterinary techs are qualified professionals that can perform higher-level clinical tasks to assist in diagnosing or treating animals, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.2  Vet techs also typically have between two and four years of higher-level education, including an associate or bachelor degree. They must pass a credentialing exam and perform continuing education.

    Vet assistants support veterinarians or veterinary technicians in their daily tasks and often perform clerical work. Some of their duties may include performing daily kennel functions, maintaining animals, or spending time on front-end tasks.  A main difference between vet techs and vet assistants is that vet assistants complete clerical activities. Additionally, there are veterinary assisting training programs. Some others may learn training on the job, according to the AVMA.

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