Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
- Education Required
- Most workers entering the occupation have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Training Required
- Although most veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers are trained on the job, some employers may prefer candidates who already have experience working with animals.
- Job Outlook
-
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 19% (Much faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Licenses/Certifications
- Although certification is not mandatory, it allows workers to demonstrate competency in animal husbandry, health and welfare, and facility administration.
- Median pay: How much do Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers make?
- $25,250 Annual Salary
- $12.14 per hour
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers care for animals by performing routine tasks under the supervision of scientists, veterinarians, and veterinary technologists and technicians.
What do Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers do?
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers typically do the following:
- Feed, bathe, and exercise animals
- Clean and disinfect cages, kennels, and examination and operating rooms
- Restrain animals during examination and laboratory procedures
- Maintain and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment
- Monitor and care for animals after surgery
- Help provide emergency first aid to sick and injured animals
- Give medication or immunizations that veterinarians prescribe
- Assist in the collection of blood, urine, and tissue samples
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers also provide nursing care before and after surgery and other medical procedures.
They may prepare equipment and pass surgical instruments and materials to veterinarians during surgery. They also move animals and restrain them during testing and other procedures.
Careers for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
- Laboratory animal caretakers
- Veterinary assistants
- Veterinary attendants
- Veterinary helpers