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Veterinary Programs

Veterinary Assistant Program

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

Carrington's Veterinary Assisting Hero

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Carrington Veterinary Assisting Program Details

Program Details

Carrington College’s Veterinary Assisting/Veterinary Assistant program provides the clinical, laboratory, and administrative skills to support veterinarians in a variety of settings. Upon completion of the Veterinary Assisting program, graduates will be able to:

  • Complete appropriate veterinary assisting procedures related to animal husbandry, diagnostics, equipment maintenance and client care in a variety of settings.
  • Apply basic knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology of multiple species in relation to animal care.
  • Maintain a professional and safe work environment.

Upon completion of the veterinary assistant training, graduates will be able to:

  • Perform the duties pertaining to veterinary clinic reception, office management, and general computer skills.
  • Perform the various duties of a veterinary assistant, such as venipuncture, administering of injections, placing of IV catheters, and the monitoring of anesthesia in a surgical setting.
  • Perform dental prophylaxis, with capability to instruct and demonstrate in-home dental care, providing detailed explanation for future recommendations.
  • Perform and apply laboratory procedures, as well as radiographic film processing regarded as diagnostic contributions in animal healthcare.
  • Demonstrate confidence in the execution of exam room protocols, such as proper pet restraining techniques, obtaining vitals, accurate recording of patient history and client communication within the examination process.
  • Relate and apply concepts of communication, reasoning, critical analysis, ethical behavior and appropriate interpersonal interaction to situations in his or her career and personal life.
  • Demonstrate the social skills, professional appearance, attitudes and behavior that employers expect of graduates.

With comprehensive hands-on training and a strong foundation in veterinary care, this Veterinary Assisting/Veterinary Assistant certificate program prepares students for entry-level roles in veterinary clinics, hospitals, and animal care facilities.

Your education is an investment in your future, and Carrington College is here to help. We offer a variety of financial aid options, including federal, state, and private programs, as well as student loans, grants, and scholarships are available for those who qualify. Each program has different requirements and application instructions. Our team is here to guide you through the options and application process.

Academic Cost

For complete details on current tuition costs, please refer to the Academic Catalog.

Carrington College’s Veterinary Assisting/Veterinary Assistant programs are available at multiple locations in Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington. Veterinary assistant training availability varies by location. To learn more about each location, explore their location pages.

Carrington College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, 428 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814; 415 506 0234 an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. Additional information about accreditation, including the filing of complaints against member institutions, can be found at accjc.org.

For comprehensive information on Carrington College’s accreditation and approvals, visit carrington.edu/accreditation-and-approvals/.

Upon completion of the Veterinary Assisting/Veterinary Assistant program, graduates will be able to:

  • Complete appropriate veterinary assisting procedures related to animal husbandry, diagnostics, equipment maintenance and client care in a variety of settings.
  • Apply basic knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology of multiple species in relation to animal care.
  • Maintain a professional and safe work environment.

REAL WORLD SKILLS

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

START YOUR PATH

You can earn your certificate in as few as 9 months.

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.
It is a true honor to work with any kind of species of animal.

Milayna J.

2020 Veterinary Assistant Program Graduate

Veterinary Assistant Career Opportunities

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, (1) veterinary assistants work in a variety of environments, including:

  • Veterinary services
  • Educational services
  • Scientific research and development services

Veterinary assisting offers opportunities to work closely with animals while supporting the daily operations of a veterinary practice. For more information, explore How to Become a Veterinary Assistant.

Hands-On Training & Externship Experience

Carrington College’s Veterinary Assistant certificate programs provide students with practical, hands-on training in both clinical labs and externships at various animal care facilities. Throughout the veterinary programs, you’ll work directly with real animals, situations, and workflows to give you real-world experience.

What Will I Learn?

Veterinary Surgical and Assisting Techniques

Veterinary Hospital Practices

Animal Nursing and Care

Why Become a Veterinary Assistant?

Veterinary assisting appeals to people who thrive in exciting, ever-changing work environments and who want to enter the animal care industry quickly, without the multi-year commitment of traditional degrees. If you love caring for animals, consider enrolling in a veterinary assistant program.

Is a Career as a Veterinary Assistant right for you?

Becoming a veterinary assistant might be right for you if you:

  • Love working directly with animals.
  • Are passionate about animal care and well-being.
  • Enjoy educating and supporting pet owners.
  • Thrive in a physically demanding environment.
  • Want clinical experience before applying to veterinary school.

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

Veterinary Assistant Program FAQs

References:

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2025, August 28). Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinary-assistants-and-laboratory-animal-caretakers.htm
  2. American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants. https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/yourvet/veterinary-technicians-and-veterinary-assistants
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