How to Become a Veterinary Assistant in Delaware

If you enjoy being around and working with animals, a career in the veterinary industry could be right for you.

But, you first need to have some information on how to get licensed.

So, read on in order to find out more!

Veterinary Assistant Employment and Job Duties in Delaware

It is relatively easy to find an entry-level position as a vet’s assistant in Delaware.

These are some places where you can start searching:

• Pet clinics,
• Animal rescue facilities,
• Animal shelters
• Zoos
• Educational institutions

Each of these facilities has its own rules and needs, and therefore what a vet assistant has to do will also vary.

Some of the duties you will need to accomplish on a daily basis include:

• Communicating with clients
• Making appointments
• Request records requests from other vets
• Inventory control
• Cleaning vet gear
• Sanitizing animal cages
• Operation room cleaning
• Help with filling prescriptions
• Prepping exam and operating spaces
• Keeping records updated
• Pay attention to the dietary needs of pets
• Make sure the animals get enough exercise

If you lack the required experience with animals, you can also choose to apply for an internship or voluntary based position first.

Some of the biggest employers in Delaware are:

• VCA Dover Animal Hospital
• VCA Glasgow Animal Hospital
• VCA Kirkwood Animal Hospital
• VCA Newark Animal Hospital
• Banfield Pet Hospital
• Vetco Wellness Centers
• Dover Petco
• Wilmington Petco
• Christiana Petco
• Millville Petco

Becoming Certified as a Vet Assistant in Delaware

You do not need to meet specific criteria to work as a vet assistant in Delaware.

However, many facilities require at least a high school diploma or a GED.

You can also join a certificate program and get a diploma upon finishing the program.

Delaware offers the AVA (Approved Veterinary Assistant) certification for those wanting to work in the industry.

This certification is offered by NAVTA.

There are several ways in which you can become an approved vet assistant in Delaware:

• Externship
  • This option is good for those who do not work in the industry just yet.
  • The training program offers theory classes but also practice, which is significant when trying to get hired.
• Experiential Learner
  • If you are already working in the industry, this option may be suitable for you.
  • You will have to work for 20 hours in a vet facility to apply.
• Veterinary Assistant Program
  • For this, you have to work part-time in a vet facility.
  • After you complete training, you can take the AVA test.

While the certification is not a requirement, you will need it in order to land your first job.

If you lack the time to join a training program in person, you can attend an online program instead.

Some of the topics you will study in class are:

• How to identify different breeds
• Animal anatomy
• The best ways to administer meds
• How to administer post-operative care
• Handling various breeds of animals
• Medical terminology
• Handling chemicals

In Delaware, the secondary schools that provide vet assistant programs can be seen below.

The programs at these schools last for at least 2 years.

Upon graduating, you could get an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in the field, which can help you further your career.

Salary Information for a Veterinary Assistant in Delaware

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, vet assistants in this state earn $32,715 per year.

There an expected annual increase of 4% for jobs in the industry in Delaware.

Salaries are higher in places like Dover, New Castle, Wilmington, and Newark, where you can make about $33,000 per year.

Your certifications or degree will help you earn a higher salary.

Additional information about vet assistants in Delaware

You will have to renew your certification every 2 years if you want to keep practicing.

You will also have to attend some extra education classes and pay a $10 fee.