How to Become a Certified Veterinary Assistant

Certified veterinary assistants provide veterinarians with much needed support. This support includes assistance during surgeries and patient care. These assistants also perform clerical duties within a clinical setting such as answer incoming calls and scheduling appointments. On average certified veterinary assistants earn $30,000 each year. 

1. Obtain a high school diploma or G.E.D. program. The first requirement of colleges and universities offering certification and/or degree programs in veterinary assistant is to possess a high school diploma. You also need you official high school transcripts to apply for a certification or degree program. 


2. Enroll into and complete an associate degree program in veterinary assisting. These degree programs take generally up to two years to complete unless taken online. Ensure that the college or university you select to obtain this degree offers job placement services. 


3. Complete an internship program within a veterinary clinic. Your academic advisor has forms for applying for the internship programs as well as a list of available internship programs. It is vital to your career to complete an internship as it provides you with in clinic experience and connections that could result in future job offers. 


4. Take and pass your certification examination. Register to take this examination. Generally you could obtain specific information from your academic advisor for the purpose of registering for this examination or you could contact the local agency overseeing certifications for your state of residence. You are required to submit a registration form and proof of completion of your degree or certification program to this agency and pay the required fees. 


5. Contact your selected college or university to determine where you obtain job placement services. Visit this office to apply for open job positions.