Anyone who is interested in following the path of becoming a veterinary assistant will want to choose a learning institution.
Choosing the proper school is the most important part of the process.
The institution of choice should fit certain criteria to ensure that the student obtains a quality education. The skillset the student learns will set the mold for future occupational opportunities.
Check for Accreditation
The first thing one should check for before selecting a veterinary assistant program is accreditation.
Selecting an accredited school will ensure that the student’s education meets the minimum standards set forth by the AVMA Council on Education.
The skills that he or she learns will be sufficient for that person to receive an official certificate or degree. An accredited school will also have to conduct itself in an ethical and resourceful fashion.
An individual seeking an accredited program may opt to take a veterinary technician course instead of a veterinary assistant program.
The AVMA does not accredit some veterinary assistant programs.
The Difference Between a Veterinary Technician Program and a Veterinary Assistant Program
The difference between a veterinary technician program and a veterinary assistant program is the length and courses.
A veterinary technician program lasts at least two years. A student can complete a veterinary assistant program in less than six months.
The reason for the shorter training period for veterinary assistants is decreased responsibilities.
A veterinary assistant is very limited in the tasks he or she may perform.
A veterinary technician, on the other hand, may take x-rays and administer medications. Most states require technicians to pass an exam for licensing. V
Veterinary assistants do not need licenses to perform and thus make less income.
The second thing a person will want to consider before choosing a school is locality.
Choosing a Local Veterinary Assistant School Verses an Out Of State School
Local schools are less expensive than out of state schools.
The difference in tuition can be as high as $10,000, so proximity is very important.
An individual considering training for a veterinary assistant also has the option to seek online training.
Online training is beneficial to people who have full-time jobs and family obligations. This type of training allows people to work around their schedules while still fulfilling their educational requirements.
Reputation Of Veterinary Assitant School
Finally, the school’s reputation is very important.
The individual should conduct research on all aspects of the facility before enrolling.
The school should have helpful staff members, including knowledgeable admissions personnel and financial aid advisors.
The school should also have instructors who excel in their jobs whether the training is online or in person.
Skilled instructors and trustworthy advisors are two crucial components of completing a program successfully.
A special thank you to Paul for this guest post. Being a vet assistant myself, I often wonder if I should have chosen to attend a veterinary school. I think if I had I would have learned more, at a quicker pace and may have been better prepared for the veterinarian field. Even after working in the field for about 7 years now, I have considered going for my vet tech degree.
