Veterinary Assistant / Receptionist

Program Description

The Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist program prepares students for a career in the field of animal care. Students will receive hands-on training that will enable them to assist the veterinarian in day-to-day clinical procedures that may include: anesthesia monitoring, preparing for surgeries, surgery assisting, administering medications, taking X-Rays, and counseling clients on training methods. This program also prepares students to effectively perform administrative and reception duties.

Please note that due to the nature of this career, employees are required to tolerate regular physical activity during the course of their work day. If you have any medical concerns, please contact your admissions officer to ensure you are aware of the requirements of the occupation and to determine if you are eligible for accommodations in this program.

Program Courses

• Feline Behavour
• Small Animal Health
• Introduction to Computers
• Keyboarding
• Small Animal Medical Nursing
• Veterinary Practice Fundamentals
• Small Animal Nutrition
• Animal Care and Handling
• Standard First Aid
• WHMIS
• Canine Behaviour
• Introduction to Veterinary Fundamentals
• Veterinary Office Administrative Duties
• Information Technology
• Small Animal Breeds
• Small Animal Surgical Nursing
• Job Search Skills
• Small Animal Handling and Restraint
• Work Term
• Pet First Aid

Employment Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist program, students may be eligible to work (depending on specific hiring practices) in veterinary clinics (large, small, or mixed animal practice), university laboratories, private drug companies, or marine facilities. Students may also become self-employed through operating their own pet-sitting or pet-daycare business.

Entrance Requirements

High School Graduates or Equivalent

High School Graduates or equivalent are eligible for admission to the Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist program. Students must complete an application form and provide a copy of High School, Adult Basic Education, or G.E.D. results. Under certain circumstances, students who do not complete the formal High School requirements may be accepted upon the recommendation of a High School Principal or Guidance Counsellor. Please contact an Admissions Officer for further details.

Mature Students

Mature Students are eligible for admission to the Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist program. These students must be at least 19 years of age, complete an application form, provide a copy of recent marks, and write a Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT) as arranged by Academy Canada.