PURPOSE
The Veterinary Assistant Certification credential documents the essential competencies for general front office, clinical, nursing care, and animal management procedures required of the veterinary assistant.
AUDIENCE
This credential is appropriate for a veterinary assistant in the daily operations of a veterinary practice, research laboratory where animals are kept, animal hospital, equine barn, farm or ranch, animal shelter, kennel or animal day care, or other environment where animals are kept and cared for.
JOB/CAREER REQUIREMENTS
Veterinary assistants support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in many tasks. They may be involved in overall veterinary practice office operations, procedures related to diagnostic imaging and treatment of animals, procedures involving animal care and husbandry, and procedures for veterinary nursing and emergency care. Most workers enter the occupation have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Though veterinary assistants can be trained on the job, many employers prefer that they have completed a formal training program and have experience working with animals. Successful veterinary assistant demonstrate compassion to both animals and their owners, are detailed oriented, and have physical strength and dexterity. Though they may not be allowed to complete all of the procedures independently, they must understand many anatomy, physiology, and veterinary medicine concepts and be able to assist when asked in a safe and competent manner. Depending upon the specific work environment, veterinary assistants must understand animal care for dogs, cats, equine, livestock, companion birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, orphaned or injured wildlife, and laboratory animals.
VETERINARY ASSISTANT WORKPLACE TASKS
- Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians when asked and as directed in animal care and management
- Feed, bathe, and exercise all types of animals
- Clean and disinfect cages, kennels, stalls, examination and operating rooms, and other areas
- Restrain animals during examination and laboratory procedures
- Maintain and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment
- Maintain supply and retail inventories
- Monitor and care for animals before and after surgery or other medical procedures
- Help provide emergency first aid to sick and injured animals and wildlife
- Give medication or immunizations prescribed by the veterinarian and under a veterinarian’s direct supervision
- Assist in collection of blood, urine, and tissue samples
- Take vital signs of animals
- Transport animals to and from treatment areas
EXAM STRUCTURE OVERVIEW
Number of Questions in Exam: 400
Time Limit for Exam Parts:
- Veterinary Medical Terminology: 176 items
- Veterinary Practice and Nursing Care: 224 items
Total Time: 220 minutes
Overall Passing Score: 70%
(All sections require an individual passing score of 70%)
