Healthcare

How to become a Veterinary Assistant

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

2–6 months

Typical pay

$32k–$40k

Starting from

No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   2–8 weeks

   Volunteer or apply at a clinic

   Shelters and general practices hire with no experience; shelter work is the fastest door.

   Course that covers thisCertified Veterinary Clinical Assistant & Laboratory TechUdemy · around $19.99 →
2. 2

   2–4 months

   Learn restraint and animal handling

   Holding a frightened cat safely for a blood draw is the skill you are hired for.

3. 3

   Certify if you want to progress

   The AVA credential is optional but distinguishes you for tech school and better clinics.

   ◆ Approved Veterinary Assistant (NAVTA)

4. 4

   1–2 years

   Decide on vet tech school

   Assistants plateau quickly; the credentialed tech route is the real earnings step.

5. ✓

   Destination

   Veterinary Assistant

   Browse jobs now →

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