Although many veterinary assistants have traditionally received on-the-job training, many schools are now offering veterinary assistant training programs. Cleaning cages, feeding animals, administering medicine, and sterilizing equipment are all tasks that can be performed by a volunteer or hired by a veterinarian while still in high school. Many schools now offer vet assistant training programs that are much more in-depth, covering topics like animal anatomy, nutrition, husbandry, and proper handling.
Basic education courses such as math, computers, and language arts will form the foundation of many vet assistant training programs offered by most schools. This not only provides a well-rounded training experience, but it also provides the student with valuable skills needed to complete office functions. These abilities could come in handy when it comes to feeding and watering animals, administering medicine, and communicating with coworkers and pet owners.
Terminology is another important aspect of vet assistant education. Knowing the terminology used in a veterinarian’s office is generally beneficial. Many things may be going on at the same time, and knowing the acronyms, abbreviations, and special terms that are being used can help a vet assistant be more efficient and effective.
Animal anatomy is another important part of vet assistant training. This term refers to a wide range of animal systems, including the muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems. A vet assistant’s understanding of various animals’ anatomy may aid in the proper handling and care of the animals in the vet office.
A vet assistant training program also teaches you about other topics. It’s also important to know how to read an animal’s chart and review its history. This could help prevent accidents by ensuring that the medicine being administered does not cause an allergic reaction, that proper immunizations are administered, and that the appropriate materials are available for the appointment. It’s also important to know how to properly immunize an animal.
Animals may be brought to the veterinarian’s office if they require immediate medical attention. Wound care and emergency management are two other topics covered in some veterinary assistant programs. This includes things like proper bandaging, putting a cast on an animal, triage, and crisis intervention, among other things. Several programs also include basic accounting, office management, inventory and supply management, and interpersonal communication training. These items could help someone prepare for further study to become a veterinary assistant.