How much can a Veterinary Assistant make?

The veterinary assistant is an entry level position at most animal hospitals, which means you may be able to find a job without going through any formal training. You would start with the more mundane tasks such as cleaning cages, exercising dogs, doing laundry, and cleaning and stocking the rooms of the hospital. You would receive on the job training that will prepare you for more advanced tasks such as animal restraint, surgical assistance, medication administration, blood collection, helping take x-rays, and assisting with laboratory tests. You might be expected to cross train as a receptionist too. Employers hiring veterinary assistants will look on the resume for any type of animal care experience (vet, pet store, ranch, boarding kennel, 4H or FFA, etc.), evidence of dependibility (prior work experience, good school attendance record), and education (high school, any animal related courses). They generally are not impressed with the fact that you've cared for your own pets, but ...  more