Introduction

Choosing a career path can be an overwhelming decision, especially when it comes to vocational training. Two popular options in the animal care field are becoming a PALS (Pet Assisted Therapy and Learning Services) professional or a Veterinary Assistant. Both professions involve working with animals, but they have distinct differences in terms of job description, education and training, and career outlook. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two career paths to help you make a more informed decision.

What is a PALS and Veterinary Assistant?

PALS

PALS, which stands for Pet Assisted Therapy and Learning Services, is a program that utilizes trained animals to provide therapeutic and educational services. PALS professionals work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and nursing homes, to help individuals with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. They often work as part of a team with healthcare professionals, educators, and therapists to design and implement animal-assisted interventions.

Veterinary Assistant

A Veterinary Assistant, on the other hand, works directly under the supervision of a Veterinarian in a veterinary clinic or hospital. They are responsible for assisting with various tasks related to animal care, such as feeding, grooming, and administering medications. Veterinary Assistants also help with restraining animals during procedures and may assist with laboratory tests and X-rays. They play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of animals and supporting the Veterinarian in providing quality care.

Difference between a PALS and Veterinary Assistant

While both PALS professionals and Veterinary Assistants work with animals, there are several key differences between these two career paths:

1. Focus of Work: PALS professionals primarily focus on providing therapeutic and educational services using trained animals, while Veterinary Assistants have a broader scope of responsibilities related to animal care in a clinical setting.
2. Work Settings: PALS professionals can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and nursing homes, whereas Veterinary Assistants primarily work in veterinary clinics or hospitals.
3. Target Population: PALS professionals primarily work with individuals with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges, while Veterinary Assistants work with a wide range of animals, including pets, livestock, and exotic species.
4. Training and Certification: PALS professionals undergo specific training and certification programs to work with therapy animals, while Veterinary Assistants may receive on-the-job training or complete a formal education program.

PALS vs Veterinary Assistant: Job Description

PALS

The job description of a PALS professional may include the following responsibilities:

• Assessing the needs of individuals and designing appropriate animal-assisted interventions.
• Training and handling therapy animals, ensuring their well-being and safety.
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals, educators, and therapists to implement animal-assisted interventions.
• Documenting progress and evaluating the effectiveness of animal-assisted interventions.

Veterinary Assistant

The job description of a Veterinary Assistant may include the following responsibilities:

• Assisting with animal care tasks, such as feeding, grooming, and monitoring health.
• Restraining animals during examinations and procedures.
• Assisting with laboratory tests, X-rays, and administering medications.
• Maintaining cleanliness and organization in the clinic or hospital.

PALS vs Veterinary Assistant: Education and Training

PALS

To become a PALS professional, individuals typically need to complete the following steps:

1. Animal Training: PALS professionals need to have experience and training in animal handling and training. They may need to work with therapy animals and learn specific techniques to ensure their well-being and effectiveness in animal-assisted interventions.
2. Education: While there is no specific degree requirement for PALS professionals, many individuals pursue a bachelor's degree in fields such as psychology, social work, or animal behavior to gain a deeper understanding of human-animal interactions and therapeutic techniques.
3. Certification: PALS professionals can obtain certification through organizations such as the Pet Partners or the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations (IAHAIO). Certification typically involves completing training programs, passing exams, and demonstrating competency in working with therapy animals.

Veterinary Assistant

The education and training requirements for Veterinary Assistants may vary depending on the employer and state regulations. Some common steps to become a Veterinary Assistant include:

1. High School Diploma: Most employers require Veterinary Assistants to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. On-the-Job Training: Many Veterinary Assistants receive training on the job, learning the necessary skills and knowledge from experienced professionals.
3. Formal Education: Some individuals choose to complete a formal education program, such as a veterinary assistant certificate or diploma program. These programs typically cover topics such as animal anatomy, medical terminology, and clinical procedures.

PALS vs Veterinary Assistant: Career Outlook and Salary

PALS

The career outlook for PALS professionals is positive, with growing recognition of the benefits of animal-assisted interventions in various settings. PALS professionals can find employment opportunities in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare or educational institutions. The salary for PALS professionals can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for animal trainers, which includes PALS professionals, was $30,430 in May 2020.

Veterinary Assistant

The career outlook for Veterinary Assistants is also favorable, as the demand for veterinary services continues to grow. Veterinary Assistants can find job opportunities in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities, and animal shelters. The salary for Veterinary Assistants can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers was $29,290 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as a PALS professional or a Veterinary Assistant ultimately depends on your interests, skills, and goals. If you have a passion for working with animals and a desire to provide therapeutic or educational services, a career as a PALS professional may be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more hands-on approach to animal care in a clinical setting, becoming a Veterinary Assistant can be a rewarding career choice. Consider researching further, talking to professionals in the field, and evaluating your own strengths and preferences to make an informed decision about your future career path.

Dreambound's programs are accessible in different locations. For additional details on these two vocations, please visit:

• PALS in South Dakota
• Veterinary Assistant in South Dakota
• PALS classes near you
• Veterinary Assistant classes near you