There are no prerequisites to enroll in this course. A high school diploma or equivalent is recommended but not required.
Credential
Certificate of Completion
Length
210 hours
Delivery
Online (Self-paced)
Registration
Open enrollment
Turn your interest in animals into practical career skills with Keyano College’s online Veterinary Assistant Training program. This course introduces you to the essential knowledge and skills needed to support veterinarians and veterinary technicians or technologists in a variety of animal care settings.
Through flexible online learning, you'll explore animal care, clinical procedures, and the day-to-day responsibilities of a veterinary assistant. You'll also develop communication and workplace skills to help you work effectively with veterinary teams and clients.
What You'll Learn as a Veterinary Assistant
Build practical knowledge of animal care, veterinary procedures, and the skills needed to support veterinary teams in clinical settings.
Animal Care & Handling
Understand animal anatomy, behaviour, and safe handling techniques for small, large, and exotic animals.
Clinical Procedures
Learn how to assist with examinations, laboratory testing, diagnostic imaging, surgical procedures, and emergency care.
Animal Health & Safety
Explore veterinary pharmacy, vaccinations, dentistry, infection prevention, and hospitalized patient care.
Veterinary Practice
Develop skills in client communication, workplace safety, professional ethics, and day-to-day veterinary office operations.
Career Opportunities
Veterinary assistants play an important role in supporting veterinarians and veterinary technicians or technologists with animal care, clinical procedures, and daily operations. Career opportunities may include:
Veterinary Assistant Animal Care Attendant Veterinary Receptionist Kennel Assistant Animal Shelter Assistant Veterinary Clinic Assistant
Opportunities may be available in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, shelters, kennels, and other animal care settings.
Program Details
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Veterinary Assistant do?
A veterinary assistant is an animal care professional who supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians or technologists with the day-to-day care of animals and the operation of a veterinary workplace. Responsibilities may include assisting with animal care, preparing examination and treatment areas, maintaining equipment and supplies, and supporting administrative or client-service activities.
Do Veterinary Assistants Handle Administrative Duties?
Some veterinary assistants perform clerical work such as scheduling appointments and speaking with customers. As a vet assistant, you may handle many of the logistical and operating duties, such as check-in, billing and after visit care. Duties will vary depending on the office you work in, but every task is to ensure the health and well-being of animals inside the veterinary practice.
Does this veterinary assistant course prepare you for certification?
No. This course does not prepare you for a specific professional certification. It is designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills for pursuing veterinary assistant opportunities.
Can I go from a Veterinary Assistant to a Veterinary Technician?
Yes. If you pursue additional education and licensing, you could become a veterinary technician. Working as a vet assistant is a great first step to understanding the industry, different specialties and advanced duties required to work as a vet technician.
How long does it take to complete the veterinary assistant course?
The course includes approximately 210 hours of training, and you will have six months to complete it.
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Turn your love for animals into a career that matters