Veterinary Assistant Programs in Durham, North Carolina
Becoming a Veterinary Assistant in Durham, North Carolina
If you’re passionate about animal care and considering a career as a Veterinary Assistant in Durham, North Carolina, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a Veterinary Assistant, including education paths, training programs, and employment opportunities in Durham. A Veterinary Assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing medical care to animals, making it a rewarding and fulfilling career choice.
About Durham
Durham, North Carolina, is a city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving educational institutions. As part of the Research Triangle, Durham is home to Duke University and a hub for innovation and research. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with neighborhoods like Downtown Durham, Ninth Street, and Brightleaf Square providing unique experiences. For more information, visit the official Durham website.
Veterinary Assistant Training Programs in Durham, North Carolina
In Durham, several educational institutions offer Veterinary Assistant programs to help you start your career in animal care. Here are some options:
- Durham Technical Community College
- Located in the heart of Durham, this college offers a comprehensive Veterinary Assistant program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for the role. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
- Durham Technical Community College Veterinary Assistant Program
- North Carolina State University – College of Veterinary Medicine
- Although located in nearby Raleigh, NC State’s College of Veterinary Medicine is a leading institution offering extensive resources and courses related to veterinary sciences. They provide various workshops and continuing education opportunities for aspiring Veterinary Assistants.
- NC State College of Veterinary Medicine
- Wake Technical Community College
- Situated in Raleigh, Wake Tech offers a Veterinary Assistant program that includes hands-on training and coursework to prepare students for a career in animal care.
- Wake Technical Community College Veterinary Assistant Program
Veterinary Assistant Employment Opportunities in Durham
Durham hosts several veterinary clinics and animal care facilities where Veterinary Assistants can find employment. Here are some notable options:
- Duke Animal Hospital
- Located in the Duke Park neighborhood, this facility offers comprehensive veterinary services and is known for its compassionate care. They often seek skilled Veterinary Assistants to join their team.
- Duke Animal Hospital Careers
- Triangle Veterinary Referral Hospital
- Situated in the Southpoint area, this hospital provides specialized veterinary services and emergency care. They offer various employment opportunities for Veterinary Assistants.
- Triangle Veterinary Referral Hospital Employment
- Broadway Veterinary Hospital
- Found in the Downtown Durham area, Broadway Veterinary Hospital is a full-service animal hospital that frequently hires Veterinary Assistants to support their veterinary team.
- Broadway Veterinary Hospital Careers
Prerequisites for Veterinary Assistant Programs
In North Carolina, there are no specific educational requirements for Veterinary Assistants. However, most programs prefer candidates with at least a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require background checks or health screenings. It’s important to check with individual schools for their specific prerequisites.
Certification Options for Veterinary Assistants
While certification is not mandatory in North Carolina, obtaining the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) certification can enhance your job prospects. The AVA certification is offered by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) and can be pursued through different pathways:
- Externship: For those not currently employed in a veterinary practice.
- Experiential Learner: For employed veterinary assistants working at least 20 hours per week.
- Veterinary Assistant Program: For employed assistants in a full-service practice.
To earn the AVA certification, complete one of the approved options and pass the AVA exam. The certification must be renewed every two years, requiring 10 continuing education credits. For more information, visit the NAVTA website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Veterinary Assistant in Durham, North Carolina, is an exciting journey. With the right training and certification, you can make a significant impact in the field of animal care. Contact a local school today to learn more about their Veterinary Assistant programs and take the first step toward your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for Veterinary Assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.