Veterinary Assistant
Program Description: This program is designed to prepare students to enter the animal health care field. The program includes both theory and practical application of skills and concepts, such as animal restraint, medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, surgery and medical nursing and disease process. Students participate in and are responsible for weekly dog washes that raise money for the program as well as giving students hands-on experience with dog behavior, grooming and restraint techniques. Students are also given an opportunity to gain insight into the different positions available in area clinics, as well as experiencing what it is like to work in a veterinary clinic during a 20 hour clinical internship experience that also earns the student college credit. Upon successfully completing the program, students are comprehensively prepared to enter any college Veterinary Technician Program or begin working in a veterinary clinic as an Assistant or an Animal Care Provider. Click here to find more information about the Vet Assistant Dog Washes on Fridays!
High School Equivalency Credits: Students earn 3.0 credits per year allocated as 1.0 English, 1.0 Lab Science, 1.0 Career Technical Education/Elective. See how these credits satisfy graduation requirements in the Program of Study.
College Credits: Credits available through Bates Technical College: up to 12 credits, Pierce College: up to 17 credits, or Clover Park Technical College: up to 5 credits
Students who successfully complete the program and meet the college grading requirements, will be eligible to apply.
Career Pathways: Groomer, Ranch Hand, Animal Trainer, Veterinary Assistant, Animal Control, Veterinary Technician, Animal Behaviorist, Biologist, Educator, Veterinarian