How to become a Veterinary Assistant and Laboratory Animal Caretaker

Veterinary assistants provide medical care and medical aid to animals. They are responsible for exercising animals, feeding them, bathing them, and restraining them during treatment and examinations. They may also perform laboratory work such as collecting urine samples, drawing blood for testing and so on. Aspirants are generally also trained on the job to assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians which is why they require relatively minor educational qualifications to assume the role of a veterinary assistant as compared to a veterinarian and a veterinary technician. Veterinary assistant jobs can be found at hospitals, private clinics, colleges, universities, and even research facilities. The work may often get physically and mentally taxing as being a veterinary assistant, one may encounter aggressive, frightened or abused patients, potentially being at the risk of getting bitten, or scratched. Veterinary assistant jobs may also require working night shifts, weekends and even holidays.

Veterinary assistant job description comprises of the following tasks:

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians with laboratory work
• Perform clerical duties
• Exercise, bathe, feed the animals
• Comfort and restrain pets during examinations and care.
• Clean, sterilize, and maintain kennels, operating rooms, examining rooms, cages, and surgical equipment.
• Administer medications or vaccines to pets
• Provide first aid to pets in an emergency

In order to excel in any field, aspirants must possess certain attributes that complement the job role. In a similar fashion, veterinary assistants must possess a strong need to help others, manual dexterity and physical fitness to cater to the animal’s needs with care and a steady hand and lift heavy objects and animals. Besides, veterinary assistants must possess strong listening skills, problem-solving skills and observational skills. Most importantly, veterinary assistants must be patient, empathetic individuals who are passionate about animals and their welfare and treat them with kindness and sensitivity. 

Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can find opportunities in various industries that involve animal care, research, and healthcare. Here are some industries that are open for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers:

1. Veterinary Clinics and Hospitals: Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can work in veterinary clinics and hospitals that provide medical care to companion animals, livestock, and sometimes exotic species. They assist veterinarians in providing primary animal care, handling animals during examinations, administering medications, and performing routine laboratory tests.
2. Animal Research and Testing Facilities: Research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and biotechnology firms employ laboratory animal caretakers to care for animals used in research and testing. They provide daily husbandry, monitor animal health, assist with sample collection, and maintain cleanliness and sanitation in animal facilities.
3. Zoos and Wildlife Parks: Zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation organizations employ veterinary assistants and animal caretakers to assist with the care and maintenance of captive animals. They assist with feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and providing support during medical procedures.
4. Agricultural and Livestock Industry: Veterinary assistants and animal caretakers can work on farms, ranches, or agricultural facilities focusing on livestock production. They assist with animal husbandry, administer vaccines, perform basic medical procedures, and monitor the health and well-being of livestock animals.
5. Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations: Animal shelters and rescue organizations often employ veterinary assistants and caretakers to provide primary medical care and support for needy animals. They assist with examinations, vaccinations, spaying/neutering procedures, and the general well-being of animals awaiting adoption.
6. Educational Institutions: Colleges, universities, and educational institutions with veterinary science programs may offer veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers opportunities. They can assist in laboratory sessions, provide support during animal-related research projects, and assist with animal care in educational settings.
7. Government Agencies: Government agencies, such as agriculture or environmental departments, may employ veterinary assistants and animal caretakers to assist with animal health and welfare programs, disease control initiatives, and regulatory compliance.
8. Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers: Wildlife rehabilitation centers care for injured or orphaned wildlife. Veterinary assistants and animal caretakers can work in these centers, assisting with the feeding, cleaning, and medical care of wildlife species to release them back into their natural habitats.