About Our Program

VA Approved Program

What is a Veterinary Assistant?

The veterinary assistant supports the veterinarian and/or the veterinary technician in their daily tasks. The assistant may be asked to perform kennel work, assist in the restraint and handling of animals, feed and exercise the animals, and spend time on clerical duties. There is no credentialing exam for the veterinary assistant. The ability to follow directions, listen and communicate efficiently, and handle multiple assignments are skills that a veterinary assistant should demonstrate. The essential skills you will learn in this program will help you keep animals healthy, care for them when they are ill, and assist veterinarians in their offices.

Our program will teach you how to:

  • Interact with animals and their owners.
  • Obtain animal health histories and records.
  • Understand veterinary medical terminology.
  • Recognize the major breeds of various animals.
  • Assist the veterinarian with caring for animals.
  • Assist with surgical and treatment procedures.
  • Recognize signs and symptoms of illness and  disease.
  • Perform administrative duties in the  veterinarians office.

This 60 hour, two course program must be taken in sequential order.

Veterinary Assistant I

Learn invaluable veterinary hospital and office procedures and the skills needed to succeed as a Veterinary Assistant. From professional conduct, laws and effects on policy and procedures to front office and exam room procedures and administrative duties, you will also learn restraint, safety concerns and basic procedures for small animals.

Web | 51866 | $269 plus textbook
Tuesday | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
5/30/2023 – 7/18/2023
6/10 & 6/24 (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM).
Instructor: Andrea Forry

Note: This course is offered online using learning management system (Canvas) and video conference program (Zoom) Tuesdays at scheduled times and in-person on Saturdays: 6/10 & 6/24 (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM). Internet and webcam required.

Veterinary Assistant II

In this second course, you will learn the legal issues regarding pharmacy and pharmacology, laboratory and surgical preparation procedures as well as introduction of Radiology and Ultrasound imaging equipment.

Web | 51867 | $269
Tuesday | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
7/25/2023 - 8/29/2023
Saturdays: 8/5 & 8/19 (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM)
Instructor: Andrea Forry

Note: This course is offered online using learning management system (Canvas) and video conference program (Zoom) Tuesdays at scheduled times and in-person on Saturdays: 8/5 & 8/19 (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM). Internet and webcam required.

.

About Our Instructor(s)

ANDREA FORRY holds a B.S. in Animal Science from the University of Rhode Island, and a Certification in Veterinary Technician. She has taught the Veterinary Assisting Certificate course since 2007. She has worked in both private practice and shelter medicine since 1996. Andrea has worked with national rescue/humane organizations as well as municipal animal control centers.

Register Today!

New Student

Need help? (PDF)

Active Student
[Within 2 years active]

Certificate of Completion

A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of both courses. Courses must be taken in sequential order.