Veterinary Assistant Salary and Employment Data
The median annual wage for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers was $34,740 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,520, while the top 10 percent earned more than $47,410. Employment of veterinary assistants is projected to grow 20 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Wage levels vary by industry and location. Veterinary assistants employed in general veterinary services earned a median annual wage of $33,830, while those in government positions earned $46,580 as of May 2023. States with the highest employment levels include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania, with metropolitan areas such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago offering the most positions BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Training Programs and Certification Requirements
Most veterinary assistants enter the occupation with a high school diploma and receive training on the job, but formal education options exist. Many community colleges, vocational schools, and animal care institutions offer certificate or diploma programs that typically take less than one year to complete. These programs cover animal handling, medical terminology, basic nursing care, laboratory procedures, and office administration.
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) offers the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) designation, which requires completion of an approved training program or a workplace externship and passing a credentialing exam NAVTA Certification Page. While certification is not legally required in most states, it can improve job prospects and starting salary. Some employers, particularly in specialty and research facilities, prefer or require candidates with formal training or AVA credentials.
Job Duties, Work Settings, and Career Advancement
Veterinary assistants perform routine animal care tasks under the supervision of veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Common duties include feeding, weighing, and bathing animals; restraining animals during examinations and procedures; cleaning and sterilizing surgical equipment; administering medications as directed; and maintaining inventory of supplies and medical records Veterinary Team.
Most veterinary assistants work in private veterinary clinics and animal hospitals, but opportunities also exist in research laboratories, zoos, aquariums, and animal shelters. The work can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging, requiring attention to safety protocols when handling animals and hazardous materials. With additional education and experience, veterinary assistants may advance to roles such as veterinary technician, laboratory animal caretaker, or practice manager, and some use the position as a stepping stone toward veterinary school AVMA.