Veterinary Assistants provide care for animals in laboratories, veterinary hospitals, and clinics. Veterinary Assistants perform routine tasks under the supervision of animal scientists, veterinarians, and veterinary technologists and technicians. They also play an integral role in the veterinary practice.

The Veterinary Assistant program prepares students to work in an entry level position in a veterinary practice. This program also provides a solid educational foundation in preparation for a post-secondary Veterinary Technology degree.

The responsibilities of the Veterinary Assistant are as follows:

• Restraint of patients during veterinary procedures.

• Clean and maintain kennels, examination, and operating rooms to control the spread of disease.

• Fill medication prescriptions ordered by the veterinarian.

• Assist veterinarians in examining animals to aid in the diagnosis of disease. * Administer oral and topical medication.

• Prepare examination or treatment rooms to ensure they are stocked with appropriate supplies.

• Clean, maintain, and sterilize instruments or equipment.

• Monitor animals recovering from surgery, and notifying the veterinarian of any unusual changes or symptoms.

• Observe and monitor animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury.

• Perform hygiene-related duties, such as grooming, clipping coats and toe nail trims.

• Educate or advise clients on many aspects of animal health care.

• Collect laboratory specimens, such as urine and feces for testing.

• Nutrition and feeding of patients.

• Perform routine laboratory tests or diagnostic tests, such as blood chemistries and complete blood counts.

• Perform office reception duties, such as scheduling appointments or helping customers.

• Perform various accounting duties, such as invoicing and maintaining inventories.