Veterinary Assisting

  • The Veterinary Assisting program is a NAVTA approved program that culminates in national certification as an Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA). It is a rigorous program designed to prepare students for careers in veterinary and other animal-related professions. This program requires both academic and physical participation as well as technical skills. Students will be exposed to the competencies needed to work in the veterinary setting. In the first course, students will learn safety protocols, infection control, animal care and nursing, first aid and CPR for cats and dogs, fear free handling and restraint, veterinary terminology, roles and responsibilities of the types of veterinary workers, law and ethics, front office procedures, and client communication. In Advanced, students will continue their study of veterinary medicine and develop a deeper understanding of terminology, pharmacy practices, lab techniques, surgical assisting, diagnostic procedures and specialty medicine. In the Clinical Practices course, students will complete a 100-hr clinical rotation in a veterinary hospital paired with an online course. Career exploration and academic mapping are part of this class. Students will also manage a canine day care and grooming program during class as part of their clinical training. Students will be evaluated by written tests, mastery of skills, case studies, professionalism, and participation in community activities. Teamwork and participation are essential components of the success of this program. Excellent attendance is critical for student success and animal health.


    Grade level 11-12. The Veterinary Assisting program requires a “C” or better in one year of Biology. This is a three-semester program including Veterinary Assisting, Advanced Veterinary Assisting, and Clinical Practices. It requires successful completion of all courses with a “B” or better, a 90% in overall professionalism and NAVTA essential skills to proceed through the program. AM and PM sessions are offered.


    Why take this course?

    • Use the same equipment as industry professionals to examine and treat animals

    • Develop valuable critical thinking skills that serve in evaluating patients and assessing health

    • Work with animals daily to develop confidence

    • Earn industry certifications to prepare for immediate employment

     

     

     

     

     

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     Julie Reynolds - Instructor


    "Ms. Reynolds is a licensed veterinary technician in the state of Alaska, and has been in the veterinary field since 2010.  She has worked with a wide assortment of animals, including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, wild birds, and polar bears.  Ms. Reynolds was born and raised in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences and an Associate degree in Veterinary Technology. " 

  • Veterinary Science

     

     

    Veterinary Assisting career tree

  • This is a two-year program. Students should enter as juniors.

     

    • Credits and Certifications

    Veterinary Assisting

    0.5 Life Science

    0.5 Math

    0.5 Elective

    Pet CPR/First Aid Certification

    Advanced Veterinary Assisting

    1.0 Life Science

    0.5 Elective Fear Free Professional Certification

    Clinical Practices in Veterinary Science

    0.5 Elective

    ProTrainings Animal CPR/First Aid certification

    Fear Free Certified Professional certification

    NAVTA Approved Veterinary Assistant certification (for those that complete the full program)

     

    • Skills

    Safety protocols

    Animal behavior and restraint

    Practice management

    Medical terminology

    Pharmacy and medical math

    Animal diseases and preventative medicine

    Small animal nursing

    Diagnostics

    Anesthesia and surgical assisting

    Emergency and critical care

    Specialty medicine

     

    • Equipment

    Examination Equipment

    Diagnostic Equipment

    Surgical Equipment Supplies

    Restraint Equipment

     

    CLINICAL ROTATIONS

    At the conclusion of the program, students will complete a 100-hr clinical rotation at a local veterinary clinic as part of the Clinical Practices in Veterinary Science course. Students must be at least 17 years old at the start of their rotation. Clinical rotations are reserved for those students completing the full program.