How to Become a Veterinary Assistant in Louisiana

In Lousiana, the vet tech field is growing fast.

If you have enough empathy to work with animals, this could be the right career path for you.

But first, check out our guide for more info regarding training and certification options.

Veterinary Assistant Employment and Job Duties in Louisiana

You can apply for a position in the below pet facilities:

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

Your day-to-day job duties will vary based on the facility that hired you.

Some of these tasks include the following:

• Communicating with clients
• Making appointments
• 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 it will be your first time working with animals, you can first choose a volunteer-based position or apply for an internship.

You can also reach out to the following associations in Louisiana:

• 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 Louisiana

In Louisiana, you do not have to meet any special requirements, however, you still need to get a high school diploma or a GED.

Some facilities might also request for:

• COMPASS test
• Some proof you are a resident of the state
• A meeting up with a mentor

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

In Louisiana, you can get the AVA (Approved Veterinary Assistant) certification for vet techs.

This certification is offered through the NAVTA.

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

You can also specialize in any of the following:

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

After you finish the program, you will get your certification issued by your school.

Depending on how much time you can spend studying, you can choose a physical program or an online program.

Some of the subjects you will learn about in class include:

• Identifying 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 features hours and theory and lab practice.

You will have more lab hours in the last semesters of the training program.

The trade schools that provide vet tech programs in Louisiana are seen below.

After you enroll in the training program, you will need to send the following:

• Tuberculosis clearance within a year
• Tetanus vaccine within 10 years
• A health insurance
• A criminal background check

Vet tech programs usually last for 2 to 3 years.

You can also opt for an associate’s or a 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 take a certification exam,, the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Examination).

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

In order to be eligible for the test, you will need to send a $300 fee.

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

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

You will also have to take 10 hours of additional classes education before you can get your certification renewed.

Salary Information for a Veterinary Assistant in Louisiana

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, vet techs in Louisiana have a yearly salary of $29,890.

Better salaries can be seen in areas like Metairie, Kenner, New Orleans, and Baton Rouge.

Vet techs that have enough experience will also earn more compared to someone in an entry-level position.

Regional Salary in Louisiana

Additional Information About Vet Assistants in Louisiana

After you complete the program you find most suitable, you will be able to enjoy a long career in the vet industry.

If you want to advance, you can even become a veterinarian in the future.