How to Become a Veterinary Assistant in Kentucky

Are you interested in a career where you can work with animals?

If so, becoming a vet tech in Kentucky can be the right option for you.

But first, you will need to have a clear idea about the certification requirements, so read on!

Veterinary Assistant Employment and Job Duties in Kentucky

You can apply for a position in the following facilities:

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

Your day to day job responsibilities will vary according to the facility you are working in.

Some of these duties include, but are not limited to:

• 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 have never worked with pets, you can first get an internship or volunteer.

You can also consider the following resources in Kentucky:

• Kentucky Veterinary Technician Association
• Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association
• National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)
• Veterinary Career Network
• Vet Tech Life
• Vetcetera

Becoming Certified as a Vet Assistant in Kentucky

You will not have to meet any special requirements to work as a vet tech in Kentucky.

But, you still need to have a high school diploma or a GED.

Some facilities might also need the following:

• COMPASS test
• Proof you are a resident of the state
• Meeting up with a mentor

The easiest way to start working is by attending a training program that ends with a diploma.

Kentucky offers the AVA (Approved Veterinary Assistant) certification for vet tech candidates.

This certification is offered through the NAVTA.

The program you join has to be accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA).

You can also specialize in:

• Dental Technician
• Anesthetist
• Internal Medicine
• Emergency and Critical Care
• Behavior Technician
• Zoological Medicine
• Equine
• Clinical Practice
• Nutrition
• Clinical Pathology

After you complete the program, you will also get a certification.

Depending on how much time you have, you can opt for a physical program or one that is online.

Some of the subjects you will attend 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

The training program includes both hours and theory and practice.

You will attend more hours of practice in the last semesters of the program.

In Kentucky, the trade schools that offer vet tech programs are seen in the next table.

After you join the program, you will need to submit:

• Tuberculosis clearance within a year
• Tetanus vaccine within 10 years
• Health insurance
• Criminal background check

Vet tech programs generally last for around 2 years.

You can also pursue consider an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

You can either opt for a B.S. in Veterinary Technology or an Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology.

You will also need to pass a certification test, the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Examination).

This exam will last for 3 hours and has 150 questions.

To take it, you will have to submit a $300 fee.

You will also need to register with the Kentucky Board of Veterinary Examiners.

Your vet tech certification has to be renewed every 3 years.

You will also have to take 6 hours of extra education before you can renew your license.

Salary Information for a Veterinary Assistant in Kentucky

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, vet techs in Kentucky earn an annual salary of $29,359.

The highest salaries can be seen in regions like Covington, Clarksville, Florence, and Louisville.

You will also be able to get a higher salary if you have some experience in the field.

Regional Salary in Kentucky

Additional Information About Vet Assistants in Kentucky

Choosing a suitable training program will greatly improve your chances of having a successful career.

All you have to do is train and then apply for entry-level positions in your area.

Keep in mind that some schools also offer job placement options, if you need to find a job fast.