What Do Veterinarian Assistants Do?

If you have a natural love for animals, a career as a veterinarian assistant might be the perfect job for you. Though this position differs from a veterinarian position, it is a very important job that plays a huge part in the health and safety of many animals. These are the various duties that a veterinarian assistant performs on a daily basis.

Daily Health and Hygiene

A veterinarian assistant normally does the feeding, bathing and exercising of the animals. These duties may be performed for rescue animals, pets that have an upcoming medical procedure or any animal that is being housed temporarily at the vet's office. This may include both preoperative and postoperative care.

Handling, Restraining and Assisting in the Administration of Medication

Many times animals do not readily take medication. When this happens the vet may need an assistant with these tasks to ensure the animal is properly medicated.

Cleaning and Sterilizing Work Areas and Equipment

The veterinarian assistant is also responsible for keeping the office clean. This may include disinfecting labs and surgical equipment, cleaning cages and other work areas, as well, as keeping waiting rooms and restrooms neat and tidy.

Testing and Clerical Duties

An assistant in a vet's office also performs duties such as, taking animal x-rays, getting samples prepared, answering the phone and scheduling appointments.