Veterinary Assistant

HTH E60 – Veterinary Assistant I Program
HTH E61 - Veterinary Assistant II Program
Veterinary assistants are critical members of a veterinary staff. Learn the practical skills needed to assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians as you care for sick and injured animals. Learn how to assist with medical procedures, customer relations, and examinations. Students will also learn how a veterinary hospital operates by focusing on billing, workplace safety, and marketing in an externship. This 150 hour Veterinary Assistant Program prepares students for entry-level positions in the veterinary field. Participants will complete a 30 hour externship at an animal clinic within the program. Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to demonstrate the practical skills needed to become a valuable veterinary assistant.

Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in the veterinary assistant field is expected to grow 20 percent from 2022-2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers work mainly in clinics, animal hospitals, and research laboratories. Their work may be physically and emotionally demanding.

Salaries vary depending on experience, hours, and location. Median annual wages of veterinary assistants were $36,440 in May 2023.

Requirements
Most employers prefer that veterinary assistants have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students must be able to lift 50 lbs with assist and 30 lbs individually.

Key areas and topics include:

  • Ethics and Law
  • Office Procedures
  • Client Relations
  • Veterinary Medical Terminology
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Pharmacology and Pharmacy
  • Physiology and Endocrine
  • Animal Behavior and Restraint
  • Animal Husbandry and Nutrition
  • Disease Prevention and Nursing care
  • Principles of Surgical Nursing
  • Lab Procedures
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Care of Companions

Spring 2025
HTH E60/E61 301
February 3 to April 30, 2025
Mondays and Wednesdays
5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
H Building, Room H-115 and ONLINE (hybrid)

In the event we are unable to meet in person, labs will be held virtually and led by your instructor.

Tuition: $1,017* (Textbooks not included)
* = Additional college registration and technology fees may apply
Textbooks and can be purchased through the Triton College Bookstore.

For more information, please call (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3709, or email us.