The Veterinary Assisting program, an option of the Animal Science program, provides you the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge required for an entry-level career as a veterinary assistant.
You will learn to assist veterinarians in the care of cats, dogs, cattle, pigs, and sheep, and gain hands-on skills and knowledge in:
Hawkeye’s 225-acre Farm Lab: Learn kennel management with cats and dogs, as well as clinic operations.
Classroom Laboratory: Learn specific skills in the use of veterinary laboratory equipment
Animal Projects: Practice proper handling of animals, which include dogs, cats, pocket pets, reptiles, birds, and livestock animals.
Dog Simulators: Learn how to perform CPR and proper restraint of animals.
Field Trips: Visit local veterinary offices to learn how your skills and knowledge can be applied in a variety of work environments.
Employment Experience: Gain 320 hours of real-world work experience ensuring you have the skills you need to succeed in your future career.
Certification: Students will become Fear Free ® certified.
Graduates can be employed as veterinary assistants or animal caretakers in veterinary clinics, humane societies, or pet stores.
| Entry | Average | Experienced | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers | $27,300 | $32,500 | $35,100 |
Source: 2022 Iowa Wage Report, Iowa Workforce Development
The following is a partial list of employers who have hired graduates from this program:
| Business | Location |
|---|---|
| Brookside Veterinary Hospital | Cedar Falls, IA |
| Cedar Bend Humane Society | Waterloo, IA |
| Cedar Valley Veterinary Center | Cedar Falls, IA |
| Den Herder Veterinary Hospital | Waterloo, IA |
| Independence Family Animal Care | Independence, IA |
| PetSmart | Waterloo, IA |
| Pet Supplies Plus | Cedar Falls, IA |