Veterinary Assistant classes near me in Washington
In the Washington metro area, the average cost of a Vet Assistant class is $3461 and the average class length is approximately 14 weeks long
Health classes near Washington, DC 20001
Class format
Available payment options
Program duration
Program level
More options
Other programs you might like within healthcare
Advanced eClinical Training
Medical Assistant Certification Course
- Earn CCMA in just 8 weeks with self-paced, online course
- Lifetime career support and optional clinical externship
MedCerts
Fully online Phlebotomy class
- Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
- In-person externship matching done after class
Advanced eClinical Training
Pharmacy Technician Certification Course
- Complete a nationally accredited CPhT course in just 12 weeks
- Flexible, self-paced online learning accessible 24
Schools not available on Dreambound
Cosumnes River College - Online Education
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
No cost info
Northeastern Illinois University Bootcamps by Quickstart
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
Designed with job-readiness in mind, the NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant Training Program covers foundational skills that are essential for on-the-job success. Once you’ve completed your online classes, you’ll also have the opportunity to get hands-on experience and practice what you learned through a required externship.
No cost info
Goodwin University
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
Do you love animals? Have you ever thought about a career as a veterinary assistant? This intensive course will provide the information you need to become a productive member of a veterinary team. The course is designed for people who want to work as veterinary assistants at veterinary hospitals and for those already employed in related positions. Upon completion of the course, you will also have the opportunity to gain access to an Externship Starter Kit.
Are you looking for veterinary assistant schools near you? The course covers all the requirements that hospitals and veterinarians' offices look for, and more! You'll learn about every aspect of veterinary assisting, including anatomy and physiology, animal restraint, laboratory sample collection, assisting in surgery and dentistry, prescription preparation, and taking radiographs.
You'll also learn how to interact professionally with clients and gain the expertise you need to educate them about key topics in pet care, such as nutrition, vaccinations, and administering medication. The course concludes with a lesson to prepare you for the job market, in which you'll see how to create an effective resume, advance your expertise, and develop strong interview skills. You will truly learn everything you need to know to be successful in your new career.
$2,145 total
U.S. Career Institute
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
Our online veterinary assistant school may be a great option for you. Become a Veterinary Assistant and learn how to care for all shapes and sizes of animals. As an animal caregiver you can be part of a busy veterinary clinic in your community, or work for pet stores, kennels, breeding and livestock farms, grooming salons, ranches, zoos and many more places. You’ll enjoy a career doing what you love—helping animals and their owners.
$589 total
College of Eastern Idaho - Workforce Training & Continuing Ed
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
Do you love animals? Have you ever thought about a career as a veterinary assistant? This intensive course will provide the information you need to become a productive member of a veterinary team. The course is designed for people who want to work as veterinary assistants at veterinary hospitals and for those already employed in related positions. Upon completion of the course, you will also have the opportunity to gain access to an Externship Starter Kit.
Are you looking for veterinary assistant schools near you? The course covers all the requirements that hospitals and veterinarians' offices look for, and more! You'll learn about every aspect of veterinary assisting, including anatomy and physiology, animal restraint, laboratory sample collection, assisting in surgery and dentistry, prescription preparation, and taking radiographs.
You'll also learn how to interact professionally with clients and gain the expertise you need to educate them about key topics in pet care, such as nutrition, vaccinations, and administering medication. The course concludes with a lesson to prepare you for the job market, in which you'll see how to create an effective resume, advance your expertise, and develop strong interview skills. You will truly learn everything you need to know to be successful in your new career.
No cost info
Community College of Denver - Center for Health Sciences
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
The Veterinary Assistant Certification program at the Community College of Denver - Center for Health Sciences stands as a beacon for those passionate about animal healthcare. Their state-of-the-art facilities, guided by experienced faculty, ensure comprehensive training in veterinary science. Students delve into anatomy, physiology, diseases, surgery, and radiography of animals while gaining practical experience through internships. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, instills professionalism and ethics, and nurtures a profound respect for animal welfare. Graduates leave equipped with the skills and compassion to make a meaningful impact in veterinary clinics, shelters, and hospitals, thanks to a rich curriculum, advanced teaching methods, and unwavering support for student success, epitomizing vocational education in Denver for aspiring veterinary assistants.
No cost info
Community College of Philadelphia
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
The Veterinary Assistant Certificate program at the Community College of Philadelphia is highly respected and offers a unique approach to learning. The program focuses on practical, hands-on training to prepare students for the challenges of the veterinary field. The curriculum covers important theoretical foundations such as animal health, disease prevention, examination techniques, treatment administration, and post-surgical care. Students also participate in scenario-based learning exercises in state-of-the-art simulation labs, allowing them to gain valuable experience from experienced professionals. Externships are a crucial part of the program, providing students with the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in real-life veterinary settings. The program's 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention and fosters individual growth and skill mastery. The Community College of Philadelphia also emphasizes the development of soft skills like communication and teamwork, recognizing their importance in veterinary care. The institution is committed to accessibility and affordability, offering a quality education at a reasonable cost. Overall, the Veterinary Assistant Certificate program at the Community College of Philadelphia provides a comprehensive and affordable education that prepares graduates for successful careers in animal care.
No cost info
Central Georgia Technical College - Twiggs County
Online Veterinary Assistant Classes
Do you love animals? Have you ever thought about a career as a veterinary assistant? This intensive course will provide the information you need to become a productive member of a veterinary team. The course is designed for people who want to work as veterinary assistants at veterinary hospitals and for those already employed in related positions. Upon completion of the course, you will also have the opportunity to gain access to an Externship Starter Kit.
Are you looking for veterinary assistant schools near you? The course covers all the requirements that hospitals and veterinarians' offices look for, and more! You'll learn about every aspect of veterinary assisting, including anatomy and physiology, animal restraint, laboratory sample collection, assisting in surgery and dentistry, prescription preparation, and taking radiographs.
You'll also learn how to interact professionally with clients and gain the expertise you need to educate them about key topics in pet care, such as nutrition, vaccinations, and administering medication. The course concludes with a lesson to prepare you for the job market, in which you'll see how to create an effective resume, advance your expertise, and develop strong interview skills. You will truly learn everything you need to know to be successful in your new career.
$2,145 total
College of Southern Maryland - La Plata Campus
In person Veterinary Assistant Classes
Take advantage of CSM's professional development training for veterinary assistants in less than one year. The Veterinary Assistant program gets students into the field quickly. This certificate will afford students better than a foot in the door opportunities at vet clinics, animal sanctuaries, etc.
No cost info
College of Southern Maryland - Regional Hughesville Campus
In person Veterinary Assistant Classes
Take advantage of CSM's professional development training for veterinary assistants in less than one year.
The Veterinary Assistant program gets students into the field quickly. This certificate will afford students ‘better than a foot in the door' opportunities at vet clinics, animal sanctuaries, etc.
Veterinary Assistants feed, water, disinfect cages and work areas, sterilize laboratory and surgical equipment, provide routine post-operative care, and administer medication orally or topically as directed. Veterinary Technicians have knowledge of the medical equipment (such as x-ray machines, heart machines, etc.), administer inoculations, prepare and restrain animals during procedures, suture and dress wounds, and advise pet owners on proper care. Veterinarians perform medical tests in a laboratory environment for use in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases in animals. Besides preparing serums for prevention of diseases, a veterinarian assistant prepares tissue samples, takes blood samples, and executes laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood counts.
No cost info
Vet Assistant classes near me in Washington
The state of Washington is home to a thriving job market for Veterinary Assistants. With a growing demand for skilled professionals in the animal healthcare industry, now is an excellent time to become a Veterinary Assistant. Whether you're looking to near your home or searching for the right classes to kickstart your career, Washington offers a wealth of opportunities to gain the necessary training and certification.
The veterinary assistant jobs in Washington are plentiful, and the veterinary assistant salary can be quite competitive. By obtaining the proper education and credentials, you can position yourself for success in this rewarding field.
What is a Veterinary Assistant?
A Veterinary Assistant is a crucial member of the animal healthcare team, providing support to Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians in the day-to-day operations of a veterinary clinic or hospital. Their responsibilities can include tasks such as:
- Assisting with the examination and treatment of animals
- Monitoring and caring for hospitalized patients
- Sterilizing and maintaining medical equipment
- Performing administrative duties, such as scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records
- Providing compassionate care and comfort to animals and their owners
Veterinary Assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of a veterinary facility, allowing Veterinarians to focus on providing the best possible medical care.
Training Requirements
To become a Veterinary Assistant in Washington, there are typically no formal educational requirements, although many employers prefer candidates with some level of training or experience. Many community colleges, vocational schools, and private institutions offer Veterinary Assistant programs that can provide the necessary skills and knowledge.
These programs can range from a few weeks to several months in duration, depending on the specific curriculum and the desired level of expertise. During the training, students can expect to learn about animal anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, laboratory procedures, and various clinical techniques.
The Fastest Path to Becoming a Veterinary Assistant in Washington
For individuals looking to become a Veterinary Assistant in Washington as quickly as possible, there are several options available. One of the fastest routes is to enroll in a Veterinary Assistant certificate program, which can typically be completed in as little as 4-6 weeks. These intensive programs focus on providing the essential skills and knowledge needed to perform the duties of a Veterinary Assistant.
Another option is to pursue on-the-job training. Some veterinary clinics and hospitals offer in-house training programs, where aspiring Veterinary Assistants can learn the ropes while working alongside experienced staff. This approach allows individuals to gain practical experience and earn a paycheck while working towards their career goals.
Veterinary Assistant Classes in Washington
Washington offers a variety of Veterinary Assistant classes and programs to choose from. Here are a few examples:
Centralia College
- Program Length: 1 quarter (approximately 3 months)
- Tuition: $3,500 (in-state)
- Requirements: High school diploma or GED
- Overview: This program provides comprehensive training in animal handling, medical terminology, laboratory procedures, and clinical skills. Students also complete an externship at a local veterinary facility.
Renton Technical College
- Program Length: 1 year
- Tuition: $5,000 (in-state)
- Requirements: High school diploma or GED
- Overview: This associate's degree program offers a more in-depth curriculum, covering topics such as animal anatomy, pharmacology, and veterinary office management. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of Veterinary Assistant duties.
Pima Medical Institute (Renton Campus)
- Program Length: 7 months
- Tuition: $16,995
- Requirements: High school diploma or GED
- Overview: This accelerated program focuses on hands-on training in a state-of-the-art veterinary lab. Students gain practical experience in areas like radiology, surgical assisting, and animal nursing.
These are just a few examples of the Veterinary Assistant classes available in Washington. Prospective students should research and compare programs to find the one that best fits their needs and career goals.
Exploring a Career in Veterinary Assistant Outside Washington
If you're aiming to pursue a career as a Veterinary Assistant but find yourself in a different state, remember, your goal is still within reach. You can explore opportunities to start your career as a Veterinary Assistant in places like Bakersfield, Detroit, New Orleans, Rochester, or Syracuse. If these locations don't work for you, Dreambound simplifies the journey to becoming a Veterinary Assistant no matter where you live. By enabling you to find and compare Veterinary Assistant classes with a quick zip code search, Dreambound empowers you to move forward confidently towards a rewarding career in healthcare, regardless of your current location.
Online Veterinary Assistant Options in Washington
In addition to traditional classroom-based programs, Washington also offers online Veterinary Assistant training options for those who prefer a more flexible learning environment. These online programs allow students to complete their coursework at their own pace, often while maintaining their current jobs or other commitments.
One such example is the online Veterinary Assistant program offered by Penn Foster College. This self-paced program can be completed in as little as 6 months and covers topics such as animal anatomy, pharmacology, and veterinary office procedures. Upon successful completion, students are awarded a Veterinary Assistant diploma.
Another online option is the Veterinary Assistant program from Ashworth College. This program can be completed in as little as 4 months and provides a comprehensive curriculum covering animal husbandry, medical terminology, and clinical skills.
Free Veterinary Assistant Options in Washington
While free Veterinary Assistant training options are relatively limited in Washington, there are a few possibilities worth exploring:
On-the-Job Training Some veterinary clinics and hospitals in Washington may offer on-the-job training programs, where aspiring Veterinary Assistants can learn the necessary skills while working and earning a paycheck. This can be an excellent way to gain practical experience and get a foot in the door of the industry.
Volunteer Opportunities Local animal shelters, rescue organizations, and veterinary facilities may offer volunteer opportunities for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in the field of animal healthcare. While these positions are unpaid, they can provide valuable training and networking opportunities.
Apprenticeship Programs In some cases, Veterinary Assistants may be able to participate in apprenticeship programs, where they receive supervised, hands-on training while earning a wage. These programs are often offered in partnership with local community colleges or vocational schools.
The Certification Process
In Washington, there is no state-mandated certification requirement for Veterinary Assistants. However, many employers prefer or even require candidates to hold a Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) credential, which can be obtained through organizations like the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
The certification process typically involves passing an exam that assesses the individual's knowledge and skills in areas such as animal handling, medical procedures, and client communication. Once certified, Veterinary Assistants must maintain their credentials through ongoing continuing education and recertification.
The Job Environment for Veterinary Assistants in Washington
The job environment for Veterinary Assistants in Washington is quite promising, with a growing demand for skilled professionals in the animal healthcare industry. Potential employers for Veterinary Assistants in the state include:
- Veterinary clinics and hospitals
- Animal shelters and rescue organizations
- Boarding facilities and pet daycare centers
- Zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centers
- Pharmaceutical and pet food companies
Veterinary Assistants in Washington can expect to work alongside Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians, providing essential support in the daily operations of these facilities. The job can be both physically and emotionally demanding, but also highly rewarding for those who have a passion for animal welfare and healthcare.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Veterinary Assistant in Washington is a promising career path for those interested in the animal healthcare industry. With a variety of training options, from accelerated certificate programs to more comprehensive associate's degree programs, aspiring Veterinary Assistants can find the right fit for their educational and career goals. Additionally, the state's thriving job market and competitive veterinary assistant salary make it an attractive option for those seeking a fulfilling and financially stable profession. By taking the first step and exploring the veterinary assistant classes available in Washington, individuals can become well-positioned to embark on a rewarding career as a Veterinary Assistant.
Remember, this journey doesn't end with this article—it's just the beginning. So, if this doesn't align with your preferences, explore these other articles:
FAQ
What is Dreambound?
Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find career & technical training programs. Whether you're looking for a healthcare, technology, or business program, our mission is to provide all the information you need to find the perfect class for you.
What programs do you offer?
Dreambound has over 70 programs across healthcare, technology, business, and industrial trades. This includes programs such as Medical Billing, Cybersecurity, and welding.
Do you offer financial aid?
Some of our schools offer financial aid for those who qualify. Many others offer payment plans, where you can pay the cost of class over time.
Is it possible to do online classes?
Yes, Dreambound offers many online programs. On Dreambound's search, you can filter by online, in-person, and hybrid (part online, part in-person).