How to Become a Veterinary Assistant
By: Jenn Hall | February 2026
Does the thought of helping animals light you up? A career as a Veterinary Assistant may be a great option for you! In fact, you could start your new career as a veterinary assistant in less than a year and be on your way to earn a median annual salary of nearly $40,000.
And the best part? This career path is expected to grow 9% through 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is much faster than average. So now may be the perfect time to get started!
Steps to become a Veterinary Assistant
Getting started is easier than you may realize. In just three steps, you could have a new, meaningful and worthwhile career helping animals.
Step 1: Earn your high school diploma or equivalent.
Most employers will require veterinary assistants to have a high school diploma or equivalent to get started. If you have not completed your high school diploma, don’t worry. There are great alternative high school options that will enable you to earn your diploma. For example, U.S. Career Institute offers an online, self-paced high school program with a career pathway focused on veterinary sciences.
Step 2: Complete a veterinary assistant career training program.
Although this training is not required, many employers will prefer new veterinary assistants to have a foundational level of knowledge and skills prior to joining the team. This training gives you greater confidence in your ability to competently perform the tasks you’ll be asked to do.
Some common topics you’ll learn include:
- Proper handling and restraint of animals
- Animal and medical terminology
- Emergency procedures
- Physical examinations, bandaging, wound care, and grooming
- Animal anatomy
- Laws and regulations governing the care of animals
- Overview of surgical procedures and X-ray techniques
- Anesthesia techniques and administering medicine
- Dental care and animal feeding/diets
Many of these programs can be completed in less than a year. For example, the online veterinary assistant certificate program through U.S. Career Institute can be completed in 4-7 months, part time.
Step 3: Begin your job search!
With your education and training completed, you’re ready to start applying for jobs. Most employers will also provide on-the-job training to help you get familiar with your new place of employment and enable you to be successful in your career.
What's next?
If you’d like to learn more about the online high school or veterinary assistant certificate programs offered through U.S. Career Institute, check out the resources below!