Veterinary assistants are employed by veterinarians to feed, maintain, clean, give physical comfort to, and provide related services to animals.  The specific duties of the assistant may vary, depending upon the type of practice. 

Veterinary Assistant is a two-year program that teaches animal science and the care of animals, including animal structure and function, principles of health, and microbes and disease.  The student will develop basic skills and techniques of assisting the veterinarian in the following areas:  receptionist duties; animal examinations; examining room and laboratory work; the handling, care, and feeding of animals; first aid and surgery; and maintenance of equipment and facilities.  On the job clinical instruction may be provided in veterinary clinics.

Students interested in the Veterinary Assistant program should take science classes, particularly biology and chemistry.  Since clerical work is often part of the veterinary assistant's duties, business classes might be helpful.