One of the first questions people ask about becoming a veterinary assistant is whether you need a degree.
No, and that’s one of the great things about the job—you get to play an important role helping animals without spending years earning a degree. Degree programs are required for veterinary technicians and veterinarians, but not for veterinary assistants. In fact, most vet assistant jobs require no more than a high school diploma or GED, making it a great entry-level career for animal lovers.
If you’re interested in a meaningful career that allows you to work with animals without taking a vow of poverty or spending years getting a degree, this is a solid choice. It’s rewarding to be part of a veterinary medical team that helps pets live long, healthy lives.
Vet Assistant Career Questions
There’s a lot to think about when weighing any new career. At Animal Behavior College, we know the ins and outs of becoming a veterinary assistant. Below are 9 common questions people ask us about this exciting path:
1. How do you become a vet assistant?
Technically, you can become a vet assistant by walking into a vet clinic or veterinary hospital with a high school diploma and learning on the job.
In reality, though, veterinary practices are busy. They often prefer hiring people with training or experience. That’s why enrolling in a veterinary assistant program or completing an approved veterinary assistant course can make a big difference.
A structured online veterinary assistant training program—like the one offered by Animal Behavior College—can provide the foundational knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this role and stand out to employers in the veterinary field.
2. How long does it take to become a vet assistant?
Earning your veterinary assistant certificate through Animal Behavior College typically takes about 12 months when following a steady pace. This certificate not only strengthens your resume but also significantly improves your chances of securing a job in veterinary medicine or animal care.
3. Are there a lot of vet assistant jobs?
Yes! The job market for veterinary assistants is thriving. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 19% job growth through 2033—much faster than average. Over 25,000 job openings are expected annually for vet assistants, laboratory animal caretakers, and other related roles.
Thanks to increased pet ownership, animal hospitals, veterinary clinics, and mobile veterinary care services are in high demand.
4. How much do vet assistants make?
Veterinary assistants earn a median salary of around $37,000 per year. Entry-level assistants can make about $29,000, while more experienced or veterinary assistants that have earned their certificate may earn $48,000 or more.
Pay depends on factors like location, facility size, and whether you completed a veterinary assistant program to earn a recognized certificate like the approved veterinary assistant designation.
5. What does a vet assistant do?
Veterinary assistant responsibilities include everything from cleaning and feeding to assisting during exams. Assistants work under veterinary technicians and licensed veterinarians, helping with clinical duties and providing support to pet owners and animal patients.
Common tasks include taking vitals, restraining animals, preparing surgical areas, and managing front-desk operations in a veterinary office or vet clinic.
6. Do vet assistants do a lot of cleaning?
Yes—cleaning is a regular part of the job. From disinfecting surgical tools to cleaning kennels and exam rooms, veterinary assistants help maintain a safe and sterile environment in animal hospitals and clinics.
Cleanliness is essential in veterinary medicine to prevent the spread of disease between animals and ensure proper care.
7. Can vet assistants work anywhere besides vet clinics and hospitals?
Absolutely. Veterinary assistants can find career opportunities in research facilities, animal shelters, and wildlife rehabilitation centers. Some even assist in grooming salons, boarding facilities, and veterinary technology labs.
With the right education, vet assistants are qualified to work anywhere that demands skilled animal care professionals.
8. What are the disadvantages of being a vet assistant?
While helping animals is incredibly rewarding, this job can be emotionally and physically tough. You may need to console a client whose pet is passing, assist in euthanasia procedures, care for abused animals, or clean up after sick pets.
Long shifts, emotional stress, and physically demanding tasks are part of the job. Still, many veterinary assistants say the opportunity to work with animals and support veterinarians is worth it.
9. Can an online course really prepare me to be a vet assistant?
Yes! A high-quality online veterinary assistant training program—like Animal Behavior College’s—offers in-depth coursework on veterinary medical terminology, veterinary anatomy, animal science, and veterinary assisting procedures.
Students also complete an externship to gain in-person experience in a real veterinary practice or animal hospital. By the end, you will have earned your certificate of completion as a veterinary assistant ready for work under a licensed veterinary technician, or veterinarian.
Your Career Starts Here
Want to work with animals and start a fulfilling role on the veterinary health care team?
Animal Behavior College’s veterinary assistant program is designed to prepare you for and build toward a rewarding future. Whether your goal is to become a licensed veterinary technician, or happily remain in your assistant career with continuing education and workforce advancement, we have the tools to support your success.
From admission requirements to externship placements, our team helps guide you through every step.
📞 Call 800-795-3294 or visit our website to start your journey toward earning a certificate as a veterinary assistant today!
