Veterinary Assisting

Division: Agriculture

The Veterinary Assisting program is housed in the Agriculture Division with courses taught under the prefix of VT (Vet Tech) and ASCI (Animal Science). The program prepares students for entry-level employment as a veterinary assistant and provides a foundation of knowledge for further study in veterinary technology. Students will learn about the members of the veterinary team, client communication, animal handling and restraint, common laboratory procedures, surgical assisting and monitoring, anatomy and physiology, animal emergencies, and veterinary medical terminology. Career opportunities include working for a large animal or equine veterinary clinic or a small animal clinic as a Veterinary Assistant, Kennel Assistant, Lab Assistant, Veterinary Receptionist, or Surgical Assistant.

Contact Information

Veterinary Assisting Faculty Contact

Kyle Thompson | (559) 688-3137 | kylet@cos.edu 
Tulare Center Building B: 204B | Tulare Campus

Agriculture Division Chair

Shannan Cooper | (559) 688-3118 | shannanc@cos.edu 
Building B: B106 | Tulare Campus

Provost - Tulare Campus and Dean of Agriculture  

C. Louann Waldner, Ph.D. | (559) 688-3050 | louannw@cos.edu 
Building A: A109 | Tulare Campus 

Certificate

For a complete list of courses and descriptions visit: COURSES

Additional courses taught in the Veterinary Assisting program are found under the Animal Science (ASCI) prefix.

VT 109 Introduction to Veterinary Technology 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion Hours:
1 Lab
An introductory course for students interested in the field of veterinary technology. Designed to give students hands-on experience with companion and farm animals.
Advisory on Recommended Preparation: Successful completion of ASCI 117 is recommended prior to enrollment.
VT 216 Veterinary Office Practices 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion Hours:
1 Lab
This course is designed to teach the skills that are necessary to successfully operate as a member of the veterinary medical or support team. Topics to be covered include basic animal nursing skills, laboratory procedures, medical math, sterility, and surgical assisting. Students will also become familiar with normal vital signs and common vaccinations of small animals.
Advisory on Recommended Preparation: VT 109 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.