Explore This Program
Program Overview
Veterinary Assistant plays a dual role in a veterinary setting; they are the first person that clients communicate with when they visit or call the veterinary hospital and also assist veterinary technologists with routine tasks. As part of the Veterinary Assistant program, you will:
- Understand the field of veterinary medicine
- Oversee front office operations
- Assist veterinary staff with standard procedures
- Use digital programs and practice management software
This program is licensed under Alberta’s Private Vocational Training Act (PVTA) and Manitoba’s Private Vocational Institutions Act (PVIA).
Career opportunities for Veterinary Assistants exist in veterinary hospitals/clinics, pet shelters pet stores, humane shelters, pet daycares, Animal Control and other animal facilities.
Program Delivery
Study on your own schedule with the option to attend live lectures throughout the week to connect with your instructor
Study and collaborate with your peers on campus, with instructor support along the way
Program Details
Admission Requirements
Contact AdmissionsCareer Opportunities
Graduates will find employment in veterinary hospitals, veterinary clinics, pet shelters and pet insurance offices in positions such as:
- Veterinary Assistant
- Veterinary Office Assistant
- Veterinary Technician Assistant
- Veterinary Medical Assistant
You could be earning in less than a year
Navigate Your Career with Workforce
At Workforce, we commit to your success from enrolment to graduation and beyond. Our dedicated team of experts will provide you free lifetime career services — whether you need help securing a practicum placement, building a compelling resume, preparing for interviews and everything in between. No matter where your career journey takes you, we’ll be here, supporting you every step of the way.
Next Start Dates
To view enrolment dates for a specific location please select a Robertson College campus.
Select A CampusTopics of Study
Animal Husbandry - 40 hours
This course introduces learners to the proper care and husbandry of common small animals seen in veterinary practice, with a focus on cats and dogs.
Animal Nutrition - 60 hours
This course has been designed to introduce learners to the critical features of animal nutrition as they relate to cats and dogs.
Animal Parasites - 40 hours
This course will introduce learners to the common internal and external parasites of small animals that are typically seen in veterinary practice.
Animal Restraint - 40 hours
This course introduces learners to the restraint techniques used in veterinary practice to safely and effectively restraint pets for routine veterinary procedures.
Career Preparation - 40 hours
This course introduces learners to career preparation strategies. Learners will be introduced to job search strategies, interviews and other career management strategies.
Common Conditions - 60 hours
This course introduces learners to common, non-communicable conditions of cats and dogs that are seen in veterinary practice.
Customer Service - 20 hours
This course provides a foundation for customer service, and recognizes that clients and colleagues can all be considered customers. Focus is on building customer relationships through the development of positive customer care approaches that includes respect for diversity and ensures organizational integrity.
MSO Applications - 80 hours
This course will prepare learners to perform functions common to all Microsoft Windows applications. Elements include the ability to create and manipulate Word, Excel, or PowerPoint applications, modify the display of toolbars and other on-screen elements, use online help, and perform file management, editing, formatting and printing functions common to most Windows applications.
Pet Immunity and Vaccines - 40 hours
This course introduces learners to common infectious diseases of cats and dogs, and the vaccinations and sanitation protocols used to increase immunity and prevent the spread of these diseases.
Veterinary Assisting - 60 hours
This course introduces learners to the basic principles of veterinary assisting for cats, dogs, and exotics (small mammals, reptiles, birds).
Veterinary Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology - 40 hours
This course introduces learners to the “language” of the veterinary profession, and the basic anatomy and physiology of cats and dogs.
Veterinary Office Procedures - 60 hours
This course introduces learners to the basic administrative skills used in the day-to-day operations of a veterinary practice.
Veterinary Pharmacy - 40 hours
This course introduces learners to pharmacology, the various drugs available in veterinary medicine, and how to accurately dispense medications for patients.
Practicum - 160 hours
The practicum is required for learners in order to gain and apply the knowledge and skills learned throughout all other courses in the program. Learners will gain confidence in skills as they progress. All program competencies are practiced and evaluated by the practicum employer(s) or mentor.
Learning Experience
Classes
Have the flexibility to live your life while going to school with our half-day classes. Our flexible start dates and small class sizes give you plenty of opportunities to learn when it’s best for you and gain the hands-on skills to succeed in any industry.
Industry-Leading Instructors
Learn from industry professionals who bring real-life experience into the classroom. You can book office hours or get virtual support from your instructors through Brightspace, where you can schedule video appointments and use instant messenger to ask questions.
Lifelong Career Services
Connect with a career specialist in your field who will help you find a meaningful place to start your career. As a graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to student services that will help you with resume building, interview preparation and networking.
Tuition & Fees
Total amount is inclusive of all program registration fees, training completion fund, ebooks and courseware. The tuition amount for Manitoba enrolment contracts also encompasses a Training Completion Fund (TCF) fee.
Financial Assistance and Funding
Robertson offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to ease students’ stress and allow them to focus on their studies. If you need extra support, we have flexible funding to accommodate all our students, no matter their financial situation. Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.
Questions about tuition and funding?
Contact Admissions
Practicum
Practicum is a chance to gain real-world experience in your field of study, and it brings you one step closer to your career!
Apply Your Knowledge
Turn what you’ve learned into real-world action by embracing challenges and exploring business opportunities.
Gain Hands-on Experience
Impress your employer to boost your hiring chances. Our Workforce Team will guide you in securing a practicum that provides valuable experience.
Build Industry Connections
Make a strong impression during your practicum. Even if not hired, your host can be a key reference in your job search.
Tailored for Success
The Workforce Team will match your practicum to your strengths and career goals, setting you up for a successful start.
Let's Get Started
Simply fill out the form below and one of our Student Advisors will provide any extra information you need and get your account activated as early as today.
Program Availability
This program is offered at multiple Robertson College campus locations. Select a campus below to view campus specific information, like schedule information and enrolment dates.
